Jingle Brew All the Way
Written: Dec 11 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Truly Great Winter Ale
Cons: Addictive
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| BigMonkey's Full Review: Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale |
If the first sip doesn't put a smile on your face, give up. You're the Grinch. Climb back up your mountain with your annoying dog.
Starting with the stunningly complex hopping--notes of grapefruit remind you that winter doesn't last forever--and the beautiful Belgian lace that adorns the glass as the head recedes, it is obvious this is serious beer.
Building on Sierra's strength with its IPA and Bigfoot ales, Celebration is generously hopped, but imparts a warmer more rounded feel. A slightly darker malt provides a hint of sweetness and gives a nice rich hue to the brew, kinda coppery.
The warmth continues with a substantial 6.8% ABV kick that never gets overpowering. The alcohol hangs back and simply provides a study footing for all the flavors to shine.
Unlike too many Xmas beers, this one doesn't glomm on some artificial spice or fruit aftertaste that leaves you wondering with you didn't grab the Hi-C by mistake. The aftertaste is pure, high quality ale.
Best of all this big brew is not dragged down by a massive feel. Drink one and you want another, not feel like you've got 10W-40 in your belly.
As distribution of this year's batch seems to better than ever, it shouldn't be too hard to find a six-pack (or case, more likely). Just be sure to hide one so you can crack it open after you are done playing Santa.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
BigMonkey
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Location: Charlotte, NC
Reviews written: 70
Trusted by: 27 members
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