On the Second Day of Beermas….
Brewed by: Gritty McDuff’s Brewing Company
Style: ESB
ABV: 6.2%
Christmas ale pours a shadowy amber color with a frothy off white head. When held to the light the beer takes on a deep crimson color that would make Santa Proud.
The aroma of this beer is malt dominate, smells bready, yeasty. A slightly earthy hop aroma comes though on the tail end.
A flavorful ESB, notes of caramel, toffee, toasted bread, and dark fruit, raisins maybe. The yeast gives the beer a distinct flavor profile that I associate with other English style ale brewed in Maine, it also leaves you with a slightly buttery mouthfeel. Hops are subtle, earthy and impart a pleasant, even bitterness throughout the sip.
Overall a tasty beverage, flavorful and festive without being overly spiced as some holiday beers tend to be. Christmas ale is available in bottles so you can enjoy it from the comfort of your own home but is probably even tastier at Gritty McDuff’s Brewpubs after a day of shopping in Freeport, Portland or Lewiston/Auburn.
Cheers!
Chaddah
12 days of Beermas 2013
Day 1: Harpoon Brewing Co. Winter Warmer
Day 2: Gritty McDuff’s Brewing Company, Christmas Ale
Day 3: Schneider Weisse, Aventinus Eisbock
Day 4: Rogue Ales, Santa’s Private Reserve Ale
Day 5: Shipyard Brewing Company, Mint Chocolate Stout
Day 7: De Struise Brouwers, Tjseeses
Day 8: Friars Brewhouse, Whoopie Pie Porter
Day 10: Ridgeway Brewing, Criminally Bad Elf
Day 11: Sierra Nevada, Celebration 2013
Day 12: Anchor Brewing, Our Special Ale