Coaster Critique: Castle Brewery Samichlaus Classic

On the eleventh day of Beermas:

Samichlaus

Name: Samichlaus Classic

Brewed By: Castle Brewery Eggenberg

Style: Dopplebock

ABV: 14%

Pours a dark amber color, minimal carbonation is present and it is very clear in the glass. When held to the light the beer takes on a copper color. Pour produced almost not head that settles to a ring of fine white bubbles around the glass.

This is a hot one, nose is boozy and beyond that there are gentle hints of chocolate and dark fruit.

Flavor is sweet, a honey flavor and alcohol give it a mead like character. There are dark fruit flavors in here as well, raisins, cherries, and dates with a hint of dark chocolate. Alcohol is present in the flavor and after the swallow a nice boozy heat forms through the chest.

Samichlaus is a favorite of mine, I have been looking for this beer since I started the 12 days of Beermas three years ago and I’m glad I could finally include it. Big in flavor and in alcohol this is a sipper and honestly sharing a bottle isn’t a bad idea. This is probably an acquired taste kind of beer that I wouldn’t recommend to everyone but if you like big bold flavors or are a bit adventurous then give it a shot.

Cheers!

Chaddah

The 12 Days of Beermas 2014

Day 1: Samuel Adams – Old Fezziwig Ale

Day 2: Goose Island – Festivity Ale

Day 3: Magic Hat Brewing – Snow Roller

Day 4: Shipyard Brewing Company – Gingerbreadhead

Day 5: Traveler Beer Co. – Jolly Traveler

Day 6: SoMe Brewing – Cinnamon Toast

Day 7: Ridgeway Brewing – Reindeer’s Revolt

Day 8: Rising Tide – d’Hiver

Day 9: 21st Amendment – Fireside Chat

Day 10: Southern Tier – 2XMAS

Day 11: Castle Brewery Eggenberg – Samichlaus Classic

Day 12: Anchor Brewing – Our Special Ale 2014

Also check out my Prior Beermas adventures:

The 12 Days of Beermas 2013

The 12 Days of Beermas 2012

Chad Lothian

About Chad Lothian

Chad Lothian lives in Old Town, Maine. He is a craft beer enthusiast and homebrewer. Chad has travelled to brewpubs, breweries and brewfests all over New England.