Follow Sean Inman to the best in craft beer
Back to Portland for a very psychadelic designed cat with a Christmas tree IPA from Gigantic Brewing. I looked for this when I was in Portland and did not see it and there is no way you miss this label.
Next in the seasonal parade is First Snow from RJ Rockers. California has barely gotten any rain, let alone snow so this beer, a “hearty American pale ale contains a rich blend of spices that warms the soul on a cold winter’s night.” would require some fake snow outside the window for us.
Off to Hood River and the wonderful beers of Josh pFriem and his pFriem Family Brewers. Here is how their website describes the seasonal, “Cozy up to the fire with a pint of pFriem’s Winter Ale and gift your taste-buds with hints of spice, orange zest, caramel and a touch of spruce tree. You may even sense the subtle notes of fruitcake, which might encourage you to share this Winter Ale with your family and friends. Unlike fruitcake, this is a beer that will not be re-gifted.”
You really have to start any Christmas beer review with the undisputed King which is Anchor Merry Christmas. “The 2019 edition of this established holiday delight lends velvety spices and rich flavors of roasted malts, western evergreens and subtle hints of Mexican chocolate.”
I would call this a return to form for Anchor. The 2019 edition of Our Special Ale has a bit more kick to it than past years. I am getting spice (cinnamon) and some pine / Christmas tree notes. It tastes more bubbly this year as well. There is a slight cola tinge at the back to add a little depth. The only flavor I am not getting is the Mexican chocolate but that could be just a me thing. This is a Claus approved beer.
Back to Oregon for a little jingle from Kris Kringle that McMenamin’s describes as a ” hearty and robust ale with a big and bold malt complexity. Toasty, caramel and fig flavors make up its sturdy foundation while two hop varieties added in five different additions deliver magnificent and intense hop flavor and aroma.”
The next beer doesn’t sound very festive. Sounds more like danger and mopping but Prairie Artisan Ales has fashioned a sour ale with all the holiday spices sure to liven up a Christmas gathering.
This Alaskan Ale seasonal was draft only – Alaska only last year but returns to distribution this year. The brewery touches on the signature ingredient, “Winter Ale is brewed with spruce tips: the fresh new growth that emerges from the branches of Sitka spruce trees in the spring.”
This English beer was first shipped to the US way back in 1990. And Winter Welcome from Samuel Smith’s has been more than a welcome addition to the season.
Our next holiday beer comes to us from Bell’s and is ice cold. A juicy session IPA for the winter months though not their traditional winter seasonal.
Mulling spices are a great Christmas Ale tradition and except for here in SoCal, sweaters are too. Avery has combined them both for their latest winter warmer.