Just in Time Brewing - Winter Warmers and Festive Flavors
I'll be honest, I was caught completely by surprise when I heard Mt. Bachelor opened up for pass holders this week. You know what that means, right? The clock is ticking to get our December beers in the fermenter. As the days grow colder, many homebrewers turn their attention to rich, full-bodied beers that bring warmth and festive flavors to the table. If you start brewing now, you’ll have these delicious holiday-inspired beers ready just in time for December celebrations. Here’s our guide to the best winter warmers and how to incorporate classic holiday flavors into your brews.
The Winter Warmer: A Seasonal Staple
Winter warmers are typically dark, malty beers with a higher ABV that lend themselves perfectly to the holiday season. These beers are known for their rich caramel and toffee notes, making them a delicious companion to cozy gatherings. Consider brewing styles like English Old Ales, Spiced Ales, or Wee Heavy Scotch Ales.
Brewing Tips: Use specialty malts, like caramel and chocolate malts, to create layers of flavor. For an extra kick, a touch of molasses or dark sugar can enhance the body and sweetness.
The Spiced Holiday Ale: Add a Little Magic to Your Brew
Holiday beers often feature warm spices that evoke the season. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves are popular choices, but remember, a little goes a long way! These flavors pair well with dark ales and porters, creating a beer that tastes just like the holidays.
Brewing Tips: Add spices during the last 10 minutes of the boil, or try adding them post-fermentation for a fresher taste. Using whole spices rather than ground can result in a cleaner flavor profile.
The Cranberry & Orange Spiced Ale: A Festive Twist on Fruit Beers
Cranberries and oranges are holiday favorites that can bring a fresh, fruity balance to winter beers. A cranberry-orange spiced ale or wheat beer adds a unique, refreshing option to the holiday lineup. This is especially perfect for lighter holiday meals or gatherings where guests might want a less-intense option.
Brewing Tips: Use fresh cranberries and orange peel in the last 5 minutes of the boil or as a secondary addition during fermentation to avoid bitterness. A neutral or slightly fruity yeast strain works best here.
Dark Chocolate & Peppermint Stout: A Dessert in a Glass
For those with a sweet tooth, a chocolate peppermint stout can be a holiday showstopper. The combination of dark roasted malts, chocolate nibs, and a hint of peppermint is indulgent yet drinkable. This beer is ideal as a post-dinner treat or even paired with dessert.
Brewing Tips: Add cacao nibs and peppermint extract after primary fermentation. Just a touch of peppermint goes a long way—start small and add more if needed to avoid an overpowering minty taste.
Barrel-Aged or Oak-Infused Beers: A Sophisticated Holiday Treat
If you’re looking for a way to add complexity without spices, consider brewing a beer that can age on oak chips, adding subtle vanilla and oak flavors to a classic winter style. This technique works well with darker styles like porters, stouts, and barleywines. Oak aging or barrel-aging kits are widely available and easy to use at home.
Brewing Tips: Use oak chips or cubes during secondary fermentation. Experiment with light, medium, or dark toast levels to find the flavor profile that complements your chosen beer style best.
You have time, but don't wait too long!
Starting these beers now means they’ll be perfectly conditioned and ready for December celebrations. Whether you’re drawn to spiced ales, fruity holiday twists, or decadent dessert-inspired brews, there’s a holiday beer for every palate. So gather your ingredients, get brewing, and bring a bit of holiday cheer to your homebrew lineup!
