Beer Review - St. Bernardus Christmas Ale

St. Bernardus Christmas Ale - 10% ABV

This is the latest offering from the monks at Abbey S. Bernardus in Watou, Belgium.  I cannot even begin to describe to you the magnificence of this brew and even though I will try, I know that I will fall short.  This deep, dark ale has a thick, creamy head and a velvety texture, which is kind of odd considering the high carbonnation.  The head will persist quite a long while, but be patient, let is slowly dissipate.  I assure you that it is worth the wait.  While you wait inhale the aromas.  Suble dark fruits, malts and a dose of alcohol ethers that will announce themselves a bit later.

Caramel malts, dark fruits, a bit of tangy Belgian yeast will tickle your palate.  Bready and much less sweet than I was expecting.  After you sip and taste all of those lovely flavors you will notice the alcohol burn as you exhale.  This one was even stronger due to that this one was purchased last year and allowed to concentrate the flavors and alcohol.  Simply magnificent.

Even if you don't celebrate Christmas you will want to celebrate this Ale.  Share it with your friends, or drink it yourself and crawl to bed like I did.

Brouwerij ST.Bernard
Trappistenweg 23
8978 Watouinfo@sintbernardus.be

http://www.sintbernardus.be/en/