When it comes to Christmas ales, there are many breweries that produce exceptional beers to celebrate the holiday season. While taste is subjective and can vary from person to person, there are a few breweries that consistently stand out for their excellent Christmas ales. Here are a few breweries that are known for their outstanding Christmas ales:
1. Anchor Brewing Company: Anchor Christmas Ale, also known as “Our Special Ale,” is a highly anticipated release every year. Each year, the recipe changes, but it always features a rich and complex blend of spices, roasted malt flavors, and a hint of dark fruit. The beer is beautifully balanced and has a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. It's a true classic and a must-try for any Christmas ale lover.
2. Great Lakes Brewing Company: Great Lakes Christmas Ale is another standout in the world of Christmas ales. This beer is brewed with a mix of holiday spices, including cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, which give it a warm and cozy flavor profile. It has a slightly sweet malt backbone and a touch of honey that adds a delightful richness. Great Lakes Christmas Ale has become a seasonal favorite for many beer enthusiasts.
3. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company: Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale is not specifically marketed as a Christmas ale, but it is released during the holiday season and has become a beloved beer for many during this time of year. This hop-forward ale features a bold and resinous hop profile, with notes of citrus and pine. It has a sturdy malt backbone that balances out the hops, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more bitter and hoppy Christmas ale.
4. St. Bernardus Brewery: St. Bernardus Christmas Ale is a Belgian strong ale that is brewed with a mix of spices, including cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. It has a rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of dark fruit, caramel, and a hint of Belgian yeast spiciness. The beer is full-bodied and has a warming alcohol presence, perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
5. Samichlaus Brewery: Samichlaus Classic is a unique Christmas beer that stands out from the crowd. It is brewed only once a year on December 6th and is aged for 10 months before it is released. This lager has an incredibly high alcohol content (14%) and a rich, malty sweetness. It has flavors of caramel, toffee, and dried fruit, with a warming alcohol finish. Samichlaus Classic is a beer that ages well and is often enjoyed as a special treat during the holiday season.
These are just a few examples of breweries that produce exceptional Christmas ales. There are many other breweries out there creating their own unique and delicious versions of this seasonal beer style. I would highly recommend exploring your local breweries and trying out their Christmas ales to find your own personal favorite. It's always fun to support local businesses and discover hidden gems in your own community. Cheers and happy holidays!