St Bernardus Christmas Ale Review And Tasting Notes

As the winter months approach, beer enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate the release of their favorite Christmas ales. Among the most revered and sought-after is the St. Bernardus Christmas Ale, a Belgian strong dark ale brewed by Brouwerij St. Bernardus in Watou, Belgium. In this article, we'll delve into the history of this iconic brew, explore its characteristics, and provide an in-depth review of its flavor profile.

The History of St. Bernardus Christmas Ale

St. Bernardus Christmas Ale has been brewed since 1962, when the Trappist monks of the Saint Sixtus Abbey of Westvleteren, located in Vleteren, Belgium, created a special holiday beer. The recipe was developed by the abbey's brewmaster, Brother Antoine, who aimed to craft a beer that would warm the hearts and souls of the local community during the cold winter months.

In 1992, the Saint Sixtus Abbey entrusted the brewing of their beers, including the Christmas Ale, to the nearby St. Bernardus Brewery, which has since continued to produce this beloved holiday beer using the same traditional recipe and brewing methods.

The Characteristics of St. Bernardus Christmas Ale

St. Bernardus Christmas Ale is a strong dark ale, with an ABV of 10%. Brewed using a combination of roasted and caramel malts, this beer showcases a rich, complex flavor profile. The brew is fermented with the brewery's proprietary yeast strain, which contributes to its distinctive character.

The beer's appearance is striking, with a deep, dark brown color and a creamy, off-white head that lingers beautifully. The aroma is equally impressive, with notes of dark fruit, chocolate, and spices that evoke the warmth and coziness of the holiday season.

Tasting Notes

When poured into a glass, St. Bernardus Christmas Ale emits a sweet, fruity aroma that hints at the beer's complexity. The first sip reveals a rich, velvety texture and a deep, malty flavor profile that's both sweet and savory.

As the beer warms, flavors of dark chocolate, caramel, and toasted nuts emerge, complemented by hints of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The finish is long and satisfying, with a subtle bitterness that balances the beer's sweetness.

Pairing St. Bernardus Christmas Ale with Food

St. Bernardus Christmas Ale is a versatile beer that can be paired with a variety of dishes, from sweet treats to savory meals. Here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Chocolate truffles or chocolate cake: The beer's dark chocolate flavors complement the richness of chocolate desserts.
• Roasted meats: The beer's savory, malty flavors pair beautifully with roasted meats like beef, lamb, or venison.
• Cheese plate: The beer's complexity and depth make it an excellent match for a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese.

Cellaring and Aging St. Bernardus Christmas Ale

Like many Belgian strong dark ales, St. Bernardus Christmas Ale benefits from aging. When cellared properly, the beer's flavors will mature and integrate, becoming even more complex and refined.

If you're planning to cellar St. Bernardus Christmas Ale, make sure to store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The ideal storage temperature is between 45°F and 55°F (7°C and 13°C).

Conclusion: A Timeless Holiday Classic

St. Bernardus Christmas Ale is a timeless holiday classic that has been warming the hearts and souls of beer enthusiasts for generations. With its rich, complex flavor profile and velvety texture, this beer is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the art of Belgian brewing.

Whether you're enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite holiday dishes, St. Bernardus Christmas Ale is sure to become a beloved tradition.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with St. Bernardus Christmas Ale in the comments below. Have you tried this beer before? What are your favorite holiday beers? Let's discuss!