Exotic, unique, somewhat rare, Belgian beers are often works of art in a bottle. And, to those inclined toward these European brews, Belgian Christmas ales can be the best of the best. Personally the Belgian holiday varieties are what Christmas beer is all about. And if any of you have ever visited Belgium during the winter holidays, you know they really do love their beer and their festival season.
While most beers made for the holidays will be called ‘winter warmer,’ there is no real style for all of the different beers that might be contained therein. The malty, rich winter seasonal beers of England tend to follow the old ale or strong ale style. Our German friends also push malt with their winter seasonal beers. Some dopplebocks, such as the amazing Samichlaus Bier, are winter only release.
Yet, much of this style of brewing, original and daring with spices and additions comes from the Belgian brewers and their amazing holiday beers. These complex and unique selections are only available for a month or more, so seek them out immediately, and consider storing some for later consumption.
Although the Beer Judge Competition Program (BJCP) style guidelines classify Belgian Christmas beers as Belgian Specialty Ales, most if not all are built on a base of Belgian Strong Dark Ale (think Chimay Blue) or Quadrupel (such as Rochefort 10). The difference being that these rich, dark ales are not usually spiced with any additions, where those of the Christmas variety are. In any case, Belgian Specialty Ales vary wildly and are unique to each brewery. And, be thankful for this diversity and the unusual additions, they are a wonder and make for a delicious and unique category of beer.
Corsendonk Christmas is one of my favorites and highly recommended. An 8.5 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) holiday wonder, like the best spiced fruit cake you’ve even had…in a bottle. Scaldis Bush de Noel, in a tiny bottle, is a great one as well, although a bit pricey. It’s boozy, spicy, fruity and 12 percent ABV!
The Gouden Carolus Noel, available in 6-packs of 11.2-fluid-ounce bottles, is a nice one, a touch more on the chocolate side of life. Even Delirium Noel, the weakest of the lot, is tasty and cheerful. St. Bernardus Christmas Ale may be the best of the lot, although it can be hard to find, and disappears quickly. A delightful 10 percent ABV Belgium holiday dream in a bottle.
The bottles of Belgian winter ales are typically festive with scenes of Christmas or snowy landscapes. These beers often pour up an extremely dark ruby color with a huge head of large bubbles, and a creamy top. Lots of lace in strange patterns clings to the sides of the glass.
The aromas are reminiscent of a strong Belgian beer, but not overpowering. Many are sweet and yeasty. Holiday spices and earthy tones follow the earlier fragrances, with cinnamon stick and orange peel fighting to emerge. The smells are usually complex and inviting.
Taste-wise, these beers are malty, first and foremost, as dark fruit, raisin and cherry, yeast and wheat all make an appearance on the tongue. Hops show up as the beers warm, but they are relatively sweet, citrus like, with a bit of peppery spice. A touch of chocolate may also arrive late in the glass.
Many are thick and creamy in the mouthfeel, medium to full-bodied. Drinkability is usually above average, but these beers can be overwhelming and filling. Although the alcohol is not prominent in most Belgian winter ales, a warming-effect can be present, and sleepiness can ensue. Happy holidays to you and yours. Enjoy the brews … Cheers.
Gene’s Haufbrau has at more than 200 beers in bottles or on tap. While they don’t have every beer the Beer Snob writes about, they probably have most. Gene’s is located at 817 Savannah Hwy. 225-GENE. E-mail the Beer Snob at publisher@westof.net.