Anchor Christmas Ale...

[Bryant]

I think this was on another thread, but I think the thread was originally about Liberty Ale......


Anyway be careful of this stuff if you don't like HEAVY spices. I enjoy many flavored and spiced beer, but this one goes a bit far for me. It actuall poured beautifully coffee brown with a nice light brown head and nice aroma. My first impression was also not bad. The spices were strong, but it wasn't bad on the palette until about 2/3 through.
When I was down to a few ounces, the spices took over and it was almost overehelming. I'm not saying some here won't like it, as the quality of the beer is still evident, but if you don't like heavy spices, you won't enjoy this.

Bryant

[BluesHarp]

It is heavily spiced, and has a real sharp bitterness on the finish; I thought it was very good, but a bit green.
I feel this will be a great candidate for cellaring and enjoying even more next year.

[newportstorm]

Originally posted by BluesHarp
It is heavily spiced, and has a real sharp bitterness on the finish; I thought it was very good, but a bit green.
I feel this will be a great candidate for cellaring and enjoying even more next year.

Agreed. I love it now, but a year or two in the cellar should mellow it out, so that a wider audience can appreciate it. Same with the Celebration Ale. I love the fresh, "green" hoppiness, but a little cellaring will let the malt shine through.

Cheers!

[fretlessman71]

I think this year's Celebration Ale is WONDERFUL! What I don't get is why they don't just say that it's an IPA right there on the label. Why make us wonder?

[chazwicke]

I love both the Celebration and the Anchor Holiday. Both mighty fine beers. I still have not seen the Anchor on tap around here though. Usually one of the local places will get it.