December is typically full of parties and BYOB get-togethers. The stores are overflowing with seasonal beers, so it can be difficult to know which six-pack to bring to the celebration. The one with the most Christmassy bottle? The one with the funniest name? It seems an impossible task to choose without tasting them all.
No worries, we did the hard work for you this season. Four friends gathered to pop the top on six holiday beers to see which would bubble to the top of our Christmas lists. One thing that became clear is that everyone likes something different–none of us had the same favorite. We hope our descriptions make it easy to grab one of these holiday hops from a local grocery store en route to your next holiday event.
[p 3 sidebar] Author's Note: Many of our local breweries did not have their winter beers available at press time. We apologize if your favorite beer was missed.
12 Dogs of Christmas Ale
Brewery: Thirsty Dog
Style: Christmas Ale
ABV: 8.3%
The Flavor: Nutmeg, ginger + cinnamon
Overall: This spicy ale overflows with flavor and finishes with a bite that’s similar to a gingersnap. The most Christmassy tasting of the bunch.
Dad Hoppy Holiday Ale
Brewery: Rhinegeist
Style: Red Ale
ABV: 6%
The Flavor: Dark caramel
Overall: A hoppy red ale that’s as comfortable to drink as dad’s old flannel is to wear. It has a dark caramel flavor with a hint of something sweet and slightly piney.
The Mad Elf
Brewery: Tröegs
Style: Belgian Dark Ale
ABV: 11%
The Flavor: Honey + cherries
Overall: A delicious Belgian beer with strong honey flavor and just a touch of cherry. A pleasant winter option for fans of wheat beers.
Christmas Ale
Brewery: Great Lakes Brewing Co.
Style: Christmas Ale
ABV: 7.5%
The Flavor: Spices + honey
Overall: Celebrating its 30th year in production, this hoppy brew is slightly spicy with notes of honey, cinnamon and ginger. A hearty beer, perfect for sipping around a fire.
Hoppy Christmas
Brewery: Brewdog
Style: Christmas IPA
ABV: 6%
The Flavor: Hoppy + fruity
Overall: If your holiday celebrations take you south, you’ll enjoy this fruity IPA infused with flavors like pineapple, papaya and citrus. The taste will transport you to the tropics.
Holiday Cheer
Brewery: Shiner
Style: Dark Wheat Ale
ABV: 5.4%
The Flavor: Peaches + pecans
Overall: Celebratory and full of fruity flavors, it has a strong peach start and finishes with a subtle hint of pecan. A nice, happy beer reminiscent of the south with zero aftertaste.
