The American Craft Beer Holiday Picks

 

Here in Madison we welcomed 15 inches of snow today by way of 35 mph winds. On days like today, there is little Sconnies can do but crack open a brew and let Mother Nature do her thing. Luckily I had some of my favorite craft brews and crafty friends on hand to keep me company. We pride ourselves in our winter knowledge up here, and we’ve come up with what we believe to be the choice beers this side of the snowpocalypse. Whatever you’re up to this holiday season, we’ve got the beer for you.

Snowed In

This is our specialty. Nothing but our favorites makes this list–they’re all that stands between us and cabin fever. Well, them and Chevy Chase.

Try:

Ambergeddon – Ale Asylum

Snow Day – New Belgium

Après-sledding

Nothing cures a chill to the bone like a stout. There are plenty of ways to warm your outside, but this is the way to warm your inside.

Try:

Bourbon County Stout – Goose Island (a favorite of Jeff Chenault)

Kalamazoo Stout – Bell’s Brewery

The Family Gathering

These spicy, festive beers will go perfectly with that hand-knitted holiday sweater. Might even distract from the appetizer you forgot to bring. And they will definitely make Uncle Tom’s stories more interesting.

Try:

Christmas Ale – Great Lakes Brewing Company

Bourbon Barrel Aged Winter Warmer – Rahr & Sons (favorite of Amber Medin)

For Santa

Let’s be real- the man deserves more than just cookies and milk. Leave him something hearty to carry him through the night. Only 1 billion to go, Kringle!

Try:

K9 Winter Ale – Flying Dog

10° Below – Scuttlebutt Brewing Co

For New Year’s Eve:

The world will live to see 2013! Take that, Mayans. Before you pop the champagne, warm your taste buds up with these celebration-worthy crafts.

Try:

Schild Brau Amber (top-rated Amber in the area)

Frambozen – New Belgium