Abita Christmas Ale

Howdy fellow snobs!

Well, it’s finally that time of the year. The sun has set by 5:30-6 o’clock, the glow of Christmas lights adorn many homes in fabulous Knox-vegas and we all begin avoiding the mall and Turkey Creek  – well, I do at least. While I do love the Christmas season one thing that happens this time of the year that I always look forward to are the winter brews – be they winter warmers, a tasty stout, or a Christmas brew of some sort. There just always seems to be something new every year that is always tasty. Now, I’ll admit, I’ve had some duds that bear the a Christmas theme but I’ve also had some pretty good ones. On deck tonight we have Abita’s Christmas Ale that I haven’t had before. This is a brew I picked up at the Westland Market & Beer Gallery and I understand it’s the featured selection this week.

First off, according to Abita, the recipe of this brew changes each year and while I don’t know what they’re tweaking, that’s kinda neat. This beer pours a dark brown with a hint of red to it. Before I snapped the pic it had about a finger and a half of head – not heavy, very airy and light. It didn’t last long. On the nose I can smell the malt, some spice and a sweetness that I can’t put a name on…maaaayyybe  vanilla. First taste is full – cocoa, coffee, a little spice and a nice hop flavor on the back. Wow, I’m really impressed with this. Based on how fast the head died down so fast I thought I was in for a lighter/more watery brew. The taste definitely lingers on the palate and sweetens up a bit. This beer would probably be good with some Christmas-type desserts, maybe something with a little spice or chocolate in it.

Final snobs: I’m digging this Christmas brew and kicking myself a little for just buying a single instead of a six-pack. Guess I’ll be headed back to the Westland Market & Beer Gallery to pick up some more!

Cheers!