Anderson Valley Winter Solstice

 Anderson Valley Brewing Co.   Boonville, CA

Notes:

Christmas/Seasonal Ale

12oz Bottle

6.9% ABV

Appearance:  Pours a nice mahogoney, the perfect seasonal, fall color…it’s deep in color, but fairly transparent…tons of bubble action in the middle…some head did form, but minimal lasted…a nice looking brew…(3.5/5)

Smell:  A nice spiced aroma…black currant, cinnamon, allspice…very warming…sweet cherry candy comes through…nice deep, sweet malt, some piney hops, a smidgen of brown sugar…creamy vanilla…nice…(4/5)

Taste:  Wow…a creamy take on the holiday flavor…yes, there is the spice and candy flavor, but the creaminess is undeniable…a balance of sweet malt with earthy hops play conveyor to the spice, sweet and creamy(!) flavors…it’s almost too simple while being effective…no alcohol or astringent flavor what-so-ever…(3/5)

Mouthfeel:  Light body, it is a little watery…light carbonation, it does bring some fluffiness, but that doesn’t last long…it’s a smooth, smooth drink, that is crisp, but flavorful and leaves only kindness and tenderness on my tongue…after taste is a creamy, sweet spice…no bitterness or alcohol heat to really speak of…it does leave my mouth watering for more, which I like…(3.5/5)

Overall:  The creamy factor takes this brew in a direction that others don’t dare venture, leaving little comparison to other seasonal ales…it may be a touch too creamy (imagine a cream ale versus a root beer), but that risk is rewarded here, as they’ve succeeded in making a very drinkable, unique brew…it's spicy warmness is, however, over powered by that vanilla creaminess, leaving it a bit short of expectations...a very balanced, light beer though that is well worth seeking out and bringing to the next holiday party…serve this brew crisp and cold and it will be enjoyed by the micro beer enthusiast and the less adventurous alike…(3.5/5)

Score:

(3.45/5)