Endless Beer: 2014 Anchor Christmas Celebration Ale

 

The tradition continues! Anchor releases their 40th Anniversary edition of the Christmas Celebration Ale. Every year, Anchor Brewing tweaks the recipe to the traditional Christmas Ale. And of course…they add a new illustration of the tree to the collection. Generally, Anchor ensures a dark ale packed full of spices that remind us all of Christmas. This is my third year sipping this beverage and it has become a tradition for myself as well. Anchor keeps the recipe secret, but we know that it is made with a mix of strong malts, spices, and hops to be complemented by the dry hopping process. Anyway, here’s to beer traditions.

Anchor Brewing Company Christmas Celebration

ABV: 5.5% (varies)

Appearance: Dark copper/ruby

Aroma: Touches of allspice, clove, nutmeg, and even a little bit of pepper; together, these aromas create a pine scent.

Taste: Starts with a sweet caramel flavor with a strong mix of Christmas spices throughout (clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon come through the most) with a back end of earthy hops.

Mouthfeel: Creamy mouthfeel during, followed by a slightly lingering aftertaste.

Overall: A good continuation of the traditional winter warmer. The staple spices and aromas of the brew continue to impress. However, I like a winter warmer to be a bit more boozy and warming going down. Worth picking up a six pack or even a case to share by the tree this upcoming holiday week. Cheers.

ES Rating: 3.5/5 Suds

Endless Pairings:

Cheeses: Aged Parmigano-Reggiano, Colby Cheese, honey, walnuts, and balsamic glaze

Appetizers: Fried mozzarella crock of french onion soup

Entree: Rotisserie Prime Rib with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted brussels sprouts

Desserts: Homemade ginger snaps or ginger bread cookies, homemade fudge brownies

**Click the links to check out the 2012 and 2013 versions of Christmas Celebration!