Great Lakes Brewing Company – Christmas Ale

Great Lakes Brewing Company – Christmas Ale

Christmas Ale
ABV: 7.5%
IBU: 30
Bottled
Best By Date: 2/4/15
Tasting on: 12/21/14
Glass: Craft Pint

Aroma: Overtones of cinnamon and ginger, honey sweetness and mild fruitiness. Undertones of earthy/floral hops. 9/10

Appearance: Copper body with a white head. Excellent clarity. 9/10

Flavor: Notes of cranberry tartness and warm, mild spices begin the beer.  Mellow malt sweetness shows up in the middle and continues through the end where warm spices return and hops bring balance. Spices fade in the aftertaste while subdued hops linger on. 18/20

Mouthfeel: Medium body with mild to moderate carbonation. No alcohol. 9/10

Overall Impression: A beer with more hops than is typical for the style, which helps provide a dimension that is missing from many Christmas ales. 45/50

Final Score: 90%