Day 20 of the 7th Annual Holiday Beer Advent-ure Calendar
Day 20: Bell’s Brewery Christmas Ale
Bell’s is easily one of the most popular out of state breweries available in Cleveland. Both their flagships and seasonals are always a big hit with our group, but I can’t quite remember people’s opinions of this one. Our first and only Scotch Ale on the list, it’s one that’s been on the calendar quite a few times. From Bell’s: “This traditional Scotch Ale is rich and malty with notes of caramel and a warm finish. Certain to make any occasion festive, or at least a bit more bearable. Enjoy with the company of friends and family.”
Reflections
Ben: I love a good Scotch ale during winter. They’re rich, malty and caramel-y. I generally forget about this one during the season, but am always happy when it makes an appearance on the calendar. This serves as a reminder to buy more of this or at least find our friend that we gave the extra bottle to.
Julia: Scotch ales scare me. I tend to think they’re too boozy and sometimes too sweet. I know I’ve had this one before, in fact, it’s been on the calendar multiple times. But I always forget if I like it. Well…I do like it! I like it a lot actually. It’s smooth, malty, warm and toasty. I imagine the best way to drink this would be wrapped in blankets next to a fire. I would gladly drink this each Christmas season
Scott: The Bell’s Christmas Ale is a winner. It’s very balanced, slightly spicy, malty and unique enough to separate itself from the other Christmas beers. I always think I won’t enjoy the scotch ale flavor, and every time I taste it I remember that I love it.
Christa: Bell’s Christmas Ale is wonderful. I’ve loved this one for years and this year’s is no different. It’s a great option to have in your fridge this holiday season. It’s a scotch ale which I wouldn’t normally reach for but this is malty and sweet and truly, 5 out of 5 stars.
Tony: Caramel, malty, boozy; this one has the hallmark holiday beer flavors and its done well. Its pretty crisp and smooth. Starts to get a slight little syrupy, sweet after taste after a few sips but i think some of that is part of the package with this kind of beer. It might not have anything distinct enough to stand out from the crowd but its a good, solid holiday beer in my opinion.
Megan: I feel like it should be snowing outside when you drink this. It pours a dark amber and just smells thick. It seems pretty sweet. You get caramel and malts and you can smell the booze too. This is a solid holiday ale!
Brad: Yesterday I was the only one who liked the Brooklyn Winter IPA, let’s see what happens today. Scotch Ales are hit or miss with me, however, I really enjoy this Bell’s version of a Christmas Scottish ale! The color is my ideal beer pour and the flavors are awesome. There are no spices used in this beer but I still get the winter caramel and toffee flavors. I am a fan of this, big time!
Heather: Bell’s Christmas Ale is a pretty distinctive flavor. I’m 98% sure I like it. Malty and slightly sweet, it tastes like a true festive Scotch Ale. It’ll warm you up right away. I dig the throwback simple label, too.