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Description:
The basic inspiration for Bell's Christmas Ale was to create a sessionable holiday beer, using locally grown malt, which would stand apart from the array of spiced winter warmers that are typically introduced this time of year. In contrast to many other seasonals, Christmas Ale doesn't contain any spices: all of the dry, toasted notes & subtle toffee flavors come from the 100% Michigan-grown barley, custom malted by Briess Malting, while a blend of hops from Michigan & the Pacific Northwest lend earthy, herbal aromas. At 5.5% ABV, it stands as a smooth, highly drinkable beer intended to complement holiday menus, not overshadow them. (Description provided by company)
Brewer:
Beer Style:
ABV:
5.40% ABV
Availability Frequency:
Winter
Containers Available:
bottle
draft
Locations Where Available:
Northeast
Southeast
Midwest
Arizona
California
Store/Serve Temperature:
close to 55 degrees F
Comments
It's Christmas Time!
Pours a reddish amber with a thin light ten head. Nice lacing and the head sticks around for awhile.
Nose is a nice balance of caramel and other toasted malts, and piney and lightly citrus-smelling hops. Although according to Bell's there are no spices added, there is a slightly earthy and spicy aroma. It must be in the hops, but it smells good.
Taste is similar, with the hops more assertive on the tongue and bitterness moderate. The herbal hop flavors are more present in the finish (which is moderately long and slightly bitter), and the malts add a nice balance of toast and warmth.
Medium body and a nicely crisp carbonation. A nice contrast and very pleasing to drink.
A very holiday-themed beer, with some nice spiced flavors (but done without the spices themselves!) that aren't overly done or too distracting. This beer would probably go with a lot of different holiday foods, and the subdued herbal flavors mean that your palate won't feel assaulted after two or more!