These Seasonal Craft Beers Will Leave You Fully In The Holiday Spirit
November 26, 2021
It’s the most wonderful time of the year — the holidays. With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, we’re heading full force into the holiday season with all of its pine-scented trees, holly jolly jocularity, brightly lit menorahs, Festivus poles, gingerbread cookies, and eagerly-awaited seasonal beers.
The latter is where our focus lies today — the time is right to stock up on holiday brews. Regardless of which holidays you celebrate, you can probably agree that a well-made Christmas beer, wintry holiday ale, or spiced IPA are all something to get excited about when the calendar edges nearer to December.
That’s why we decided to list eight of our favorites below. Some are classic, spiced Christmas beers and others land a little on the hoppier side. There’s something for every palate and each pick is a lot better than a sock full of coal. Let’s dive in!
Clown Shoes Reindeer Games
ABV: 7%
The Beer:
Clown Shoes is a big name in the craft beer world. Recently, the brand launched a “12 Beers of Christmas” mix pack featuring a slew of great beers. This includes Reindeer Games. Named for the extracurricular activities Rudolph wasn’t allowed to partake in, this beer is “Bavarian Style” IPA is brewed with Saaz, Mandarina, and Mosaic hops.
Tasting Notes:
Take a moment to breathe in the notes of bready malts, bright lemon zest, butterscotch, dank pine, and a slight, herbal backbone. The sip reveals caramelized sugar, orange peels, brown sugar, a pine forest, and a slightly sweet, subtly bitter finish that leaves you wanting more.
Bottom Line:
You probably thought that all Christmas beers were spiced. This one appeals to IPA fans by refusing to conform to the expected conventions for conjuring the season.