Today I’m hosting yet another guest review. I’ve been casually recruiting via twitter under the umbrella of inviting beer newbies (or reviewing newbies) to come post here. Michael Green is a twitter acquaintance that answered the call and makes his debut reviewing Anchor 2009 Christmas Ale.
Bouquet/Aroma (Malt, Hops, Other Aromatic Characteristics)
Earthy aroma. I tend to think there is a hint of pine and other spices that are tough to pin down (nutmeg?). I don’t notice any distinct hoppy notes.
Appearance (Color, Clarity, Head Retention)
I’d say its color is a dark copper. The head poured kind of thick (less than two fingers) but disappeared without leaving any lacing (could be the glass I used).
Flavor (Malt, Hops Conditioning, Aftertaste, Balance, Other Flavor Characteristics)
I get a light licorice taste combines with some bitterness. Sweet start that moves to a bitter ending but not in an unappealing way. It’s a roasted, dry flavor that leaves a lingering taste in your mouth, almost a little burnt yet tasty.
Body (Full? Medium? Thin?)
I’d say this is a medium bodied beer. Lightly carbonated.
Drinkability & Overall Impression
I think this year’s Christmas Ale is a little lighter on the spices that previous years and that’s not a complaint. This is what I’d consider it a nicely flavored winter ale. I enjoyed it more as it warmed to room temperature. I don’t think I could enjoy drinking more than two of these in a sitting.
Homebrew Academy
