As we enter the holiday season, most of us will be gathering with friends and family and sharing meals together. As your self proclaimed beer expert (or maybe just beer nerd), I would like to offer one of my favorite holiday beers for you to try. The good news is that it is likely available almost everywhere. Here is some information….and in advance….You’re Welcome!
St. Bernardus Christmas Ale.
Belgian Brown Strong Christmas Ale
Brewed by: St. Bernardus Brewery
Country: Belgium
Style: Winter
Color: Brown
ABV: 10.0%
Cellaring: Yes
Ratebeer.com rating: 99
BeerAdvocate.com rating: 94
St. Bernardus Christmas Ale (ABV 10%) is an abbey-style ale that pours dark reddish brown with a frothy beige head and medium carbonation. Top fermented and bottle conditioned, the brew boasts aromas of sweet caramel, dark fruits, raisin, cinnamon, clove, chocolate, bread and notes of anise. Taste follows a similar profile and also includes sweet apricot, banana, licorice, marzipan, and molasses, some peppery spice and a slight hop bitterness. The mouthfeel is creamy and light to medium bodied; the 10.0% ABV is well hidden but warming; and the finish is long, bittersweet and dry.
Food Pairings:
Pair with pizza, any meat and cheese plate or winter stew, a hearty creamy soup, honey ham, duck, turkey, and many desserts especially bread pudding. Serve at 45 – 50 degrees F.
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