St Bernardus Christmas Beer Review And Tasting Notes

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a plethora of festive beers to warm our hearts and bellies. Among the many Christmas beers available, St Bernardus Christmas Beer stands out as a top contender. Brewed by Brouwerij St. Bernardus in Belgium, this Quadrupel-style ale is a masterclass in balance, complexity, and holiday cheer. In this review, we'll delve into the world of St Bernardus Christmas Beer, exploring its history, tasting notes, and what makes it a must-try for any beer enthusiast.

History of St Bernardus Christmas Beer

St Bernardus Christmas Beer has been a staple of the brewery's lineup since 1962. Brewed using a traditional recipe, this Quadrupel-style ale is a variation of the brewery's renowned St Bernardus Abt 12. With a slightly different yeast strain and brewing process, St Bernardus Christmas Beer offers a unique twist on the classic Quadrupel style.

Tasting Notes

Upon pouring, St Bernardus Christmas Beer presents itself with a rich, dark brown color and a creamy, off-white head. The aroma is complex, with notes of dark fruit, spices, and hints of chocolate. As the beer warms, the nose opens up, revealing subtle hints of vanilla and oak.

The flavor profile is a masterclass in balance, with a rich, malty sweetness that's perfectly offset by a subtle bitterness. Dark fruit flavors, such as raisins and figs, dominate the palate, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth. The finish is long and satisfying, with a subtle drying effect that leaves the palate clean and refreshed.

ABV and IBU

St Bernardus Christmas Beer weighs in at 10% ABV and 26 IBU, making it a robust and full-bodied ale that's perfect for sipping on a cold winter's night.

Food Pairing Suggestions

St Bernardus Christmas Beer is a versatile beer that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Rich, fatty meats like duck or lamb
• Strong, pungent cheeses like blue cheese or gouda
• Sweet, spicy treats like gingerbread or speculoos
• Dark, rich chocolates like 70% cocoa or higher

Why You Should Try St Bernardus Christmas Beer

St Bernardus Christmas Beer is a must-try for any beer enthusiast. With its rich, complex flavor profile and balanced, full-bodied character, it's the perfect beer to warm your heart and belly during the holiday season. Whether you're a fan of Quadrupel-style ales or just looking for a special beer to enjoy during the holidays, St Bernardus Christmas Beer is sure to impress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, St Bernardus Christmas Beer is a holiday classic that's sure to become a staple in your beer cellar. With its rich, complex flavor profile and balanced, full-bodied character, it's the perfect beer to enjoy during the holiday season. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you.

Final Verdict

Overall, St Bernardus Christmas Beer is a world-class beer that's sure to impress even the most discerning beer enthusiasts. With its rich, complex flavor profile and balanced, full-bodied character, it's the perfect beer to enjoy during the holiday season. If you haven't tried it yet, what are you waiting for?