URGENT UPDATE: Ohio breweries are rolling out an exciting array of Christmas ales just in time for the holiday season! As of December 2023, beer enthusiasts can explore five unique Christmas ales, each bringing festive flavors from different cities across Ohio.
Residents can find these seasonal brews on local store shelves, making it easier than ever to celebrate the holidays with locally crafted beers. The selection features a variety of styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
BREAKING DOWN THE BEERS:
1. **Athens:** Jackie O’s Christmas Ale – This 6.5% ale offers a subtle sweetness from honey, complemented by a hint of burnt toast that adds a pleasant finish without overwhelming the palate.
2. **Canal Winchester:** BrewDog’s Winter Staycation – A robust 7.5% stout, it features rich chocolate notes combined with soft nuttiness, coconut, and hazelnut flavors, creating a smooth experience.
3. **Cincinnati:** Madtree Brewing Co.’s Holly Days – This 6.8% India Pale Ale is infused with spruce tips, providing a delightful balance of hops and pine, all while keeping the flavors subtle and enjoyable.
4. **Cleveland:** Collision Bend Brewing Co.’s Christmas Staycation – An amber ale at 6.8%, it’s characterized by a clean taste and a well-balanced mix of malts and hops, with spices lingering pleasantly on the palate.
5. **Columbus:** Land Grant Brewing Co.’s Cornelius Hoppy Holiday Lager – At 6%, this lager surprises with grapefruit and citrus notes while maintaining its identity as a lager, rather than an IPA.
FAVORITE PICK: The standout in this month’s selection is Collision Bend’s Christmas Staycation, lauded for its smooth and balanced flavor profile.
BREWERY NEWS:
In addition to the festive ales, several breweries across Ohio are hosting events and launching new offerings this month:
– **Nano Brew** has reopened its popular Holidayland Christmas Bar, now featuring a new Polar Pint Shack on the patio. It operates daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and until 2:30 a.m. on weekends through December 31.
– **HiHO Brewing** invites locals to its Ugly Sweater Karaoke event on December 16 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls.
– Tickets for the **Winter Warmer Fest** are now available for the event scheduled on March 7, 2024, in Cleveland, promising a celebration of local brews.
– **Warped Wing Brewing Co.** is making headlines with the launch of its first non-alcoholic beer, Zero Altitude IPA, catering to a growing demand for alcohol-free options.
Beer enthusiasts are encouraged to check local retailers including Heinen’s, Red, Wine & Brew, Acme, and Giant Eagle for these festive offerings.
As Ohio breweries continue to innovate and celebrate the season, locals are sure to find joy in exploring these Christmas ales. Don’t miss out on these festive flavors and brewery events—get your holiday spirit flowing today!
