"This is probably my favorite seasonal release. I Always look forward to my first six pack.
A:
Pours a beautiful mahogany/ruby red color. A two finger Khaki head
forms, and gently recedes. Rings of sticky lace is left behind. A
looker.
S:
Very reserved in the nose, but I still really enjoy it. Nutmeg with
toasted malts. A light buttery aroma, quickly covered up by almonds,
warm fresh backed bread. A deceivingly complex aroma emerges.
T:
Like the nose, very reserved at first, but much more comes out as I
work my way down. Toasted malts, baked bread , nutmeg and an almond
nutty flavor. A light sweetness comes out toward the end, then a dry
almost bitter coco. It is amazing how much delicate complexities emerge
from this.
M/D:
A medium body and carbonation. Very soft and velvety. So easy and
enjoyable to drink. The bottle is gone in no time, and I am sure the
rest of the six pack is not far behind.
Seems
like the piney, almost allspice flavor is not there. Which has been a
recurring theme. This release is more warm toasted and malty goodness.
Again, a seasonal I look forward to every year, and for good reason. No
doubt I will be getting more six packs again this year."
-champ103, Beer Advocate
ANCHOR CHRISTMAS RECIPES
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Beer of the Month
$10.99 a 6pk
regularly
$11.99
"Each
year since 1975, Anchor Brewing creates a distinctive Christmas Ale,
available from early November to mid-January. A rich, dark spiced ale,
our secret recipe is different every year—as is the tree on the
label—but the intent remains the same: joy and celebration of the
newness of life.
Since
ancient times, trees have symbolized the winter solstice when the
earth, with its seasons, appears born anew. Our tree for 2012 is the
Norfolk Island pine. Captain Cook discovered this South Seas isle and
its native tree in 1774. These tropical-looking conifers, which thrive
in sandy soil and coastal climes, were first planted in California in
the 1850s. The Norfolk Island pine on this year’s label, hand drawn
from life, resides in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.
Each
year our Christmas Ale gets a unique label and a unique recipe.
Although our recipes must remain a secret, many save a few bottles from
year to year. Properly refrigerated, the beer remains intriguing and
drinkable for years. Different nuances emerge as the flavor mellows
slightly, much like the memories of great holiday seasons past.
Celebrate the holidays with Anchor Christmas Ale, an Anchor tradition
since 1975"
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