Sierra Nevada – Celebration Ale (2006)

Sierra Nevada’s winter seasonal was one of the first winter ales I fell in love with after I moved to Washington State. Winter is my favorite season on the beer calendar. There are always so many good beers to choose from that have a bit more “oomph” than most offerings released during the rest of the year.

The winter seasonals tend to offer a bit more hop … a bit more malt … a bit more alcohol … a bit more flavor! “Winter Warmers” as they are sometimes called are among my favorite beers because of the depth and complexities they offer. No need for subtlety here, although there’s plenty to be had.

Appearance: A slightly red-hued amber with a decent off-white head that clings to the side of the glass. Smell: Roasty up front. Solid hop aroma. Some bubblegum? Taste: A good roasty, toasty malt presence with some caramel is butted up against a solid hop bitterness and flavor. Substantial alcohol. Some spice at the end. Not as balanced as I remember previous years. Third and fourth sips appear more balanced than the first (result of hops for sure). Finishes with roasty/hop flavors. Mouthfeel: Great mouthfeel. Good coating of the tongue imparts flavor all over with a lingering finish in the back of the mouth. Drinkability: I seem to remember this as better in previous years. Still very high up among my favorite winter ales. I will gladly finish the 6 pack I bought.