Being a California girl, some would say I’m a bit partial to California beers. I can’t say that’s completely true but I do get excited when a brewery from my home state brews an outstanding beer. This year Anderson Valley Brewing Company brought out one of their winter seasonal favorites, Winter Solstice Seasonal Ale. 
Scott & I shared a pitcher of this winter warmer the other night and boy what a treat! As the beautiful dark reddish-brown ale poured into the pint glass, Belgian lace just coated the top of the pitcher. Quality! Before you take a drink, pause for a second and put your nose to the glass. Anderson Valley brews Winter Solstice with caramel, crystal malts, and some holiday spice giving this ale a sweet, nutty, brown sugar aroma reminiscent of warm sugared hazelnuts or brown sugar Christmas candy.
Now I know you must be thinking “this beer sounds too sweet Liz. How does it taste?” Well let me tell you, the taste is just as amazing as the smell. There are definitely hints of brown sugar, and did I say Christmas candy? Well, the crystal malts really give this ale a nice creamy, toasty flavor cutting the sweetness down to soft, mellow hints. But don’t get me wrong, the ale is also 6.9% ABV so it does pack a little bit of a punch. If you like toasty brown ales, you will truly enjoy this winter warmer. Winter Solstice Seasonal ale is only available from November until New Years so find some and stock up.
Cheers,
Liz
Pacific Northwest Beer Chick 