Beer-a-Day #1
Bottled in 2006. This was part of the gift package I received from Ron in 2007. You have no idea how hard it has been to open the refrigerator all year to see this winking back at me.
“Samichlaus” beer is brewed once a year, in each case on December 6th, and stored and matured afterwards for over 10 months before it is bottled. “Samichlaus” beer can mature for many years in the bottle; older vintages obtain a complexity and receive their creamy warm aftertaste.
Brassy in color with a syrupy body. Head dissipates quickly, with no discernible lacing. Looks more like cognac than beer. Aroma has quite a bit of nuttiness with some fruit undertones. Mouthfeel is thick, as I expected. Flavor has essences of dried fruit but not overly sweet. More like brandy than beer. Definitely for sipping. Not something to have every day; definitely for special occasions. I like it.
Good choice for #1! Good luck on the next 364!
I opened one of these on New Year’s Eve that I have been storing since 2004. It was excellent, I think the time in the bottle really mellowed out the sweetness that I found when I have one that is young. Cheers.