Whether enjoying time with family or relaxing after a stressful day of shopping here are ten beers that will enhance the experience. Not all of these beers are new or seasonals, some of them (such as Chimay Grand Reserve) are great anytime!
1) Boulevard Bourbon Barrel Quad: This quadruple, was aged in bourbon barrels and cherries were added to account for the “angel’s share” of evaporated beer during aging. It is only around for a limited time and a cant miss!
2) Anchor Christmas Ale: The recipe changes every year, but this spiced ale is always excellent. Perfect for the holiday celebrations.
3) Lagunitas Sucks Holiday Ale: I can not say enough good things about this amazing beer. It is everything one wants in an American DIPA and more, if you can still find it, get it and enjoy!
4) Gouden Carolus Noel: One of the best, of the many, spiced Belgian Christmas ales available. This beer is boozy, complex and will certainly warm everyone up.
5) Bell’s Winter White Ale: For the less intense beer drinkers or those just looking for a change. Light, fruity and like everything Bell’s makes, excellent quality.
6) Monchshof Schwarzbier: The closest thing the Germans make to a stout. Roasty and light, one of the best examples of the style available in America.
7) Stone Double Bastard: This beer is strong, complex and delicious, simply a beer that has to be experienced for one’s self.
8 ) Chimay Grand Reserve: Available year round, but this is one of the best beers in the world according to Rate Beer (which is a totally deserved ranking). It is even better around Christmas!
9) Samuel Smith’s Winter Welcome Ale: This classic British winter warmer is smooth, malty and a little stronger than your average British pale ale.
10) Liefmans Fruitesse: This beer holds lots of great fruit and is considerably sweeter than the style should be. However, that is precisely what makes it a great “family” beer, Aunt “whomever, who hates beer” may change her mind on this one.
