Tis the Season for Festive Brews
As the crisp winter air settles in and the colorful lights adorn the streets, I can’t help but feel the excitement of the holiday season. And what better way to embrace the yuletide spirit than with a cozy gathering at our beloved neighborhood pub, The Up and Under? This time of year, the taps at our local watering hole are brimming with an array of seasonal craft beers – from rich, roasty stouts to spicy, herbal ales. It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, family, and fellow beer enthusiasts for an evening of holiday cheer and sudsy delight.
Sampling the Seasonal Sips
I recently had the chance to visit The Up and Under for their annual holiday beer tasting event, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. As I walked through the pub’s inviting doors, the welcoming aroma of mulled cider and freshly baked pretzels instantly put me in a jolly mood. The twinkling lights and festive decor added to the cozy ambiance, setting the stage for an evening of merry imbibing.
The bar was abuzz with excitement as the knowledgeable bartenders guided us through a lineup of carefully curated seasonal brews. First up, we sampled the Abita Christmas Ale – a deep amber lager with notes of caramel, ginger, and a subtle spicy finish. As the Reddit community discussed, this classic holiday offering from Louisiana’s Abita Brewing Company is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both craft beer enthusiasts and those who prefer more approachable, everyday beers.
Next, we moved on to the Shiner Holiday Cheer, a festive doppelbock from the iconic Texas brewery. This rich, malty delight had a warming presence, with flavors of toasted pecans and holiday spices that danced on the palate. As the Virginia.org article noted, the Shiner Holiday Cheer is a reliable choice for those looking to enjoy a seasonal beer without venturing too far from their familiar comfort zone.
Diving into the Dark Side
As the tasting progressed, we delved into the darker, more robust offerings. The Guinness Draught was a holiday staple, with its legendary stormy surge and creamy mouthfeel. As the Beerchaser blog described, this iconic Irish stout is a true classic, distinguished by its bold, roasty character and satisfying finish.
But the real showstopper of the evening was the Founders Brewing Company’s Breakfast Stout. This decadent treat was like drinking a rich, chocolatey milkshake, with hints of coffee and a smooth, velvety texture that coated the tongue. The bartender warned us that this beer was not for the faint of heart, but for the true stout enthusiasts among us, it was a delightful indulgence.
Embracing the Experimental
As we navigated the tasting, we also discovered some more unconventional holiday offerings that piqued our interest. The Bell’s Christmas Ale, with its intriguing blend of spices and subtle citrus notes, was a refreshing departure from the heavier, malty brews. And the Anchor Brewing Company’s Merry Christmas & Happy New Year – a hoppy, herbal ale with a touch of holiday cheer – proved to be a delightful surprise, showcasing the creativity and innovation of the craft beer scene.
Raising a Glass to the Season
As the evening drew to a close and our glasses emptied, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pure contentment. The holiday beer tasting at The Up and Under Pub had been a resounding success, offering us the opportunity to explore a diverse array of seasonal brews, each with its own unique personality and flavor profile.
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer enthusiast or simply looking to embrace the festive spirit, I encourage you to visit The Up and Under Pub and indulge in their wonderful selection of holiday beers. Gather with your loved ones, raise a glass, and let the flavors of the season carry you away. Cheers to the most wonderful time of the year!
