Beer Recommendations for the Holidays

We are entering the holiday season in the U.S. starting with Thanksgiving this week. And, when family and friends get together to celebrate it is nice to make it special. This is a great time to introduce new, interesting and fun beers to sample, discuss and enjoy. It may even spark some interest in those who aren’t familiar with craft beer.

Al wrote this great article on how to find a new beer to try. One of his suggestions was to try something recommended. So, if you are still stumped, here is a holiday suggestion list that should fit the bill and I highly recommend them all.

But, whatever you do, please don’t listen to this snowman!

1. Get a Growler – If you have a local brew pub, there is a good chance they sell growlers of their craft beer. A growler holds a half-gallon (about a six pack) of beer. Ask the bar keep what they recommend, but go out on a limb and don’t just ask for “something everyone will like”, ask for “the brew master’s favorite”. Some more advice, try to get it within 24 hours of drinking and save the growler for refills!

2. Celebrate the Season – Many brewers produce seasonal brews that compliment the chilly season with their own version of a winter warmer. I highly recommend trying one of these:

• Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale
• Samual Smith Winter Welcome Ale
• Weyerbacher Winter Ale
• Anchor Christmas Ale
• Young’s Winter Warmer

3. Paint it Black and Tan – I recently told you what it is, and then I showed you how to pour one. A black and tan is something different and makes beer interesting, especially to non-beer drinkers, or those who only drink mega-brewed beers. (Please ignore Guinness’s marketing that the colors make it best to have on Halloween)

4. Drink your Dessert – Trust me… there is no need for pudding when you have Young’s Double Chocolate Stout for dessert. This beer will stand on its own for dessert, but if you would like to pair it go for contrast with something like spiced cookies or pumpkin pie.

Happy Holiday’s from Hop Talk!