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Christmas is a magical time. For many of us, however, it was quite different than in previous years. We gathered more in front of computer screens for online meetings rather than in the circle of family and friends, trying to capture a substitute for those special moments of Christmas togetherness.
This year was something special, and it deserved an extraordinary, an alternative celebration. How about Christmas beer? Let’s go back to the happy moments of last week during Christmas…
Well, I have to disappoint you: There is no Christmas beer as such… but interestingly, there is a tradition of Christmas beer in the brewing industry. And this is the story: Whether we’re talking about Christmas beer in German-speaking countries, Christmas Beer in the United Kingdom, or Kerstbier in Belgium, they have a common denominator: a higher alcohol content than usual, perfect for warming up on long winter evenings.
However, if one studies their bouquets, one finds the entire range of flavors. The Christmas beer is typically a lager with a pronounced maltiness. The Christmas beer is mild-sweet, with a robust base, fruity and spicy flavors originating from the yeasts and, especially, from added spices such as cardamom, ginger, or cinnamon.
Due to their unique flavors and relatively high alcohol content, they pair perfectly with some buttery Christmas desserts: Panettone, Pandoro, or the German Stollen.
Interestingly, they also pair well with Swiss Christmas cookies: the anise flavor of Anis-Chräbeli, the aroma of cinnamon stars, or the cinnamon and almond flavor of Basler Brunsli.
For those who prefer a more sophisticated taste, British Christmas beers are an interesting discovery. Her dark red color, often transitioning into brown, accompanied by a malt and toffee flavor enriched with black tea from the classic British hops of the Kent region, is a perfect suggestion for the traditional British Christmas pudding or a grand promise of indulgence when paired with Engadine cake, the Swiss nut cake with caramel and walnut filling.
This year was something special, tough, rough, and challenging, but it should be no less magical. Relax, try, and enjoy. Discover the magic of Christmas again by sipping on your favorite beer and inhaling the scent of pine trees and Christmas treats. Perhaps you will welcome the new year tonight, hoping that it will be better than the one we are bidding farewell to this evening.
Cheers!