Bell’s Christmas Ale

By on December 7, 2012 :: posted in Reviews, Beer of the Day

5.5% ABV, Bottle

Appearance: Cloudy reddish-amber in color, thin bone-colored head with good retention and thick lacing.
Aroma: Mild smell of bready, almost doughy, malt with fruity notes of citrus.
Taste: Malt forward, with spicy bread crust flavors reminiscent of rye, balanced by a spicy and floral hop bitterness and fruity ester notes before finishing dry and bready.
Mouthfeel: Medium bodied, smooth, good carbonation from bottle conditioning.

You won’t find any cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, sugar-plum or other typical Christmassy ingredients in Bell’s Christmas Ale. It’s just 100% Michigan-grown barley malt and a mix of Michigan and Pacific Northwest hops that manage on their own to generate a pleasant, balanced, easy-drinking blend of toasted bread, toffee and spicy flavors. Reminiscent of a nice Scotch ale, minus any peat or smoky notes, Bell’s Christmas Ale is a nice alternative to the many over-the-top seasonals vying for space on your holiday table.

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