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beers. White Belgiums, Indiana whites,
and all of the hoppy goodness that comes
with them have been tailored to fit the
winter cold. Often times displaying the
smooth start of the ale and finishing with
the hoppy bite, these “winter” pale ales
appeals to those drinkers who are put
off by the near-black coloring and hefty
texture of the traditional winter beer.
The more old-fashioned robust beers that
are featured during the holiday season,
like porters and imperial stouts, can
be higher in alcohol content and often
times should not be served ice cold, but
instead around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit
to allow the aromas to really come out
and be experienced. This is where the
warming factor of the winter beer comes
into play. Chocolate, caramel, coffee,
vanilla and toffee flavors matched with a
malty body offer the drinker a balanced
and warming feel to counteract the chill
of the winter months. With beautiful
colors ranging from brown-reds, to
deep purples, to pitch blacks, winter
styled brews evoke a velvety feel that
is only matched by a crackling fire.
Because of their high ABVs, winter beers
are able to keep through the long winter
months while maintaining their full body,
sweetness and warming effect. Keep a
watchful eye on the shelves for seasonal
beers and special editions, as Maryland’s
official craft beer month is February.
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