Six Ways To Celebrate The Holidays

With the holidays now in full swing, so comes the most stressful time of year. Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, turkey dinners and an occasional holiday carol. But let’s be honest. Amongst the joys of the holidays come some unwarranted headaches. I’m not sure who finds enjoyment in fighting crowds at the mall while trying to figure out gift choices for those impossible to buy for relatives. Maybe I’m missing something. Especially in New England, where the temperature begins to drop and the days become shorter, and we’re all reminded of the tough couple of frigid months that lie ahead.

Although as the calendar flips to the winter months, a whole new batch of seasonal beers hit the market. On the heels of Oktoberfest and some of the best seasonal brews of the year, winter beers have a tough act to follow. But here is a six pack that will help you cope when the in-laws come over to visit.

Long Trail Hibernator

Long Trail has a reputation for putting out quality beers, and that’s exactly what you get from this Scottish style ale brewed in Bridgewater Corners, Vermont. This dark auburn selection is made with caramel and chocolate malts, but is rather hoppy and relatively easy to drink. It lives up to its name, being a nice brew to sip on when you’re hanging in and avoiding the cold.

Troegs Mad Elf Ale

If there’s one good thing about February, it’s when this Hershey, Pennsylvania brewery releases its Nugget Nectar. It’s so good that your local liquor store has trouble keeping it on the shelf. But their holiday selection is also a nice surprise. Brewed with hints of cherries and honey, this crimson shaded ale brings a nice jolt to your taste buds. With the alcohol by volume at 11%, grab a 22 oz. at the end of a tough day at work or the mall.

Sam Adams White Christmas

This limited release has the qualities of a white ale, or Belgian style witbier, with an unfiltered, hazy golden appearance that you can’t see through if poured into a glass. But the brewers of Sam Adams throw in hints of cinnamon and nutmeg to give it that holiday appeal. Even if you’re like me and not a fan of a natural wheat beer, it’s worth a try. And if you’re still not a fan, pick up a Sam Adams Winter Classic twelve pack, which also includes Old Fezziwig Ale and the classic Winter Larger, both solid beers for this time of year.

21^st Amendment Fireside Chat

This post would have been completed a week ago if I had only found a store that carried this beer sooner. I recently become a fan of this San Francisco brewery’s Brew Free! Or Die IPA, so when I found out about this winter selection, I had to try it. I was like Captain Ahab on a mission, and my search was well worth it. It’s a classic winter style ale, with a dark complexion and a nice blend of spices that aren't too overpowering. It’s only available from October through December, so do yourself a favor and grab a six pack while you still can.

Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout

It wouldn’t be wintertime without an abundance of stouts and porters to choose from, so it would only be fitting to include one on this list. Brooklyn Brewery’s Black Chocolate Stout is one of the better choices you’re going to find. It’s an Imperial stout style of beer with a rich chocolate flavor, and available throughout the winter months. Instead of a piece of pie, crack one of these for dessert after your holiday dinner. Or just have both.

Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale

If none of the previous suggestions suit your fancy, stock up on this beer for your holiday party. Sierra’s seasonal selections are all good, but their Celebration Ale might be at the top of the list, and it’s as good as any winter ale you’re going to find. It almost makes the winter months bearable. Simply one of the best.