Follow Sean Inman to the best in craft beer
Duclaw goes the lighter road with their snowfall beer of yore, adding juniper and then aging their lager on oak chips. This Maryland brewery also has sent a limited amount of beer out to us in SoCal which is a great Christmas treat.
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.
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.
Yes this is a 5 year-old Widmer Bros. beer and yeah, I still have a 2010 of Brrrbon on the shelf as well too (maybe I will keep that for a ten year Christmas beer) .
The five year old beer has held up quite well and still has some spritz to it for a 9.4% beer. Starts off more woody forward than bourbon. The base beer, Brrr is a lighter winter warmer in my mind so the taste is almost more English than American. As it warms it has a sherry sort of note to it and it really does sticks to the roof of the mouth with caramel flavors to it.
I think I picked the right Christmas season to open it.
Nearing the holiday finish line and we pick a winter IPA from Captain Lawrence as the next beer to highlight and not one of their famed sours.