Great Lakes Christmas Ale Review And Guide

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a warm, spiced ale? The Great Lakes Christmas Ale is a beloved winter warmer that has been delighting beer enthusiasts for over 25 years. In this review and guide, we'll dive into the history of this iconic brew, its flavor profile, and what makes it a staple of the holiday season.

History of Great Lakes Christmas Ale

First brewed in 1992, the Great Lakes Christmas Ale was one of the first winter warmers to hit the market. Brewed by the Great Lakes Brewing Company, a renowned craft brewery based in Cleveland, Ohio, this ale was created to evoke the warm, comforting feelings of the holiday season. Over the years, the recipe has remained largely unchanged, with the brewery tweaking the formula only slightly to perfect the flavor.

Flavor Profile and Characteristics

So, what makes the Great Lakes Christmas Ale so special? The answer lies in its unique blend of ingredients and brewing techniques. This ale is brewed with a combination of roasted and specialty malts, which provide a rich, malty flavor. The brew is then spiced with a blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, which adds warmth and depth to the beer. The result is a complex, full-bodied ale that's both sweet and spicy.

Here are some key characteristics of the Great Lakes Christmas Ale:

• ABV: 7.5%
• IBU: 30
• Malt: Roasted and specialty malts
• Hops: Blend of English and American hops
• Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg
• Flavor Profile: Rich, malty, sweet, and spicy

Pairing and Food Recommendations

The Great Lakes Christmas Ale is a versatile beer that can be paired with a variety of foods. Here are some recommendations:

• Holiday meals: This ale pairs perfectly with traditional holiday dishes like roasted turkey, ham, and beef. The spices in the beer complement the savory flavors of the meat, while the malt provides a rich, comforting base.
• Cheese and charcuterie: The Great Lakes Christmas Ale is a great match for a cheese and charcuterie board. The sweetness of the beer balances the saltiness of the cheese, while the spices complement the cured meats.
• Desserts: Yes, you read that right! This ale pairs surprisingly well with sweet treats like gingerbread, sugar cookies, and fruitcake. The spices in the beer complement the sweetness of the dessert, creating a delightful flavor combination.

Where to Find Great Lakes Christmas Ale

The Great Lakes Christmas Ale is widely available across the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast regions. You can find it in bottles, cans, and on draft at many craft beer retailers, bars, and restaurants.

If you're having trouble finding this ale in stores, you can also check the Great Lakes Brewing Company's website for a beer finder tool. This tool allows you to enter your zip code and find retailers near you that carry the Great Lakes Christmas Ale.

Conclusion

The Great Lakes Christmas Ale is a true holiday classic that's sure to delight beer enthusiasts of all ages. With its rich, malty flavor and warm, spicy spices, this ale is the perfect companion for any holiday gathering. Whether you're enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite holiday dishes, this ale is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

So, go ahead and grab a bottle (or two, or three...) of the Great Lakes Christmas Ale. Your taste buds will thank you!