There are many remedies geared towards fighting off Old Man Winter but the ones I hold near and dear come packed with herbs, spices and high alcohol content. That’s right; I’m referring to winter warmers and wassails. I can’t say I’m familiar with any published or set guidelines defining exactly what a winter warmer is but if you check the beer displays from most well-stocked stores, you might be surprised at the number of seasonal beers that include this term in the name or elsewhere on the label. While a winter warmer is typically malty and sweet, wassails usually have spices added to the hearty malt backbone. Both come in a range of colors from brownish reds to nearly pitch black.
So let’s get started.
FULL SAIL Wreck the Halls: I happened to have some 2007 left, so I opened another and the results were outstanding. This sublime hybrid of an American style IPA aged very well. The hops diminished nicely erasing any bitterness. This winter warmer has 6.5% ABV and pours an off-white head that dissipates quickly but leaves a lingering lace. It has an intriguing blend of Centennial hops providing elegant citrus notes balanced by the warmth of a rich caramel malt body. The 2015 is a bit bitterer and has a stealthier alcohol kick.
Hanukkah CHANUKAH: This “Pass the Beer” offering from SHMALTZ BREWING is made with 8 hops, 8 malts and 8% alcohol. It pours a crystal clear chestnut to ruby color with a light creamy head that dissipates fast. The aroma and flavors lean toward a robust winter warmer yet it is brewed without spices. Caramel and toasty nuttiness brush up against the nose while a deep backdrop of dark toffee and sweet chocolate maltiness settle in. The flavor comes to play when it hits the palate with numerous elements blending together to create balanced and distinct tastes. Hanukkah Beer is brewed as a celebration offering and provides a little winter warmth to the season.
Wittekerke Winter White Ale: This winter warmer clocks in at 7.5% alcohol. This full bodied brew pours a hazy golden orange color with a dense off white head that reduces to a small cap that lingers, leaving a fine beaded lacing that clings to the glass. Pleasant aromas of citrus fruits are balanced nicely with the malt, spices and yeast esters. The flavor begins with a decent shot of citrus fruit followed by lingering notes of light fruits, wheat, clove and honey that end very creamy and smooth. It is richly flavored with spiciness without being overly full… definitely a very enjoyable offering.
These winter warmers will get you started, but there are many more out there ready for the tasting. So, get out there and get hunting.
