Great Lakes Christmas Ale6pk

Christmas Ale is a seasonal style category more than a single recipe, and this six-pack of cans falls into it. No ABV or IBU is listed for this particular bottling, so treat the following as what the style usually delivers. Winter ales of this kind tend to be amber to deep copper, with a toasty, bready malt base, moderate bitterness, and a gentle spice or caramel sweetness. Expect a rounder, warmer profile than a summer pale ale, with hops in a supporting role rather than at the front. Serve it cool rather than ice cold, around 45 to 50°F. At fridge temperature the malt and any spice character stay muted. Pull the cans out about 15 minutes before pouring. Pour into a nonic pint glass or a tulip, and avoid drinking straight from the can, because the aroma of a seasonal ale is a large part of its appeal. A short pour with a moderate head releases the malt and spice notes that a can opening alone will not. For food, malt-forward winter ales usually suit roasted poultry, glazed ham, pork loin, and aged cheddar or Gouda, where the caramel notes echo browned and savory flavors. They also work with sweeter or spiced desserts such as gingerbread, pecan pie, or baked apples. Cans are sealed from light, so storing them cold and upright until you plan to drink them is enough to keep them in good condition.