Winter Seasonal Beer

A stronger, darker, spiced beer that often has a rich body and warming finish suggesting a good accompaniment for the cold winter season.

Rich malt aroma with warming spice notes (cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger), dried fruit, and possibly chocolate. Moderate alcohol warmth. Inviting and festive — suggests winter holiday spiced warmth.

Amber to dark brown, 10-30 SRM. Clear to slightly hazy. Off-white to tan head with good retention. Rich, dark, and inviting.

Rich malt flavor with warming spice notes (cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, orange peel). Sweet to semi-sweet with dark fruit and caramel. Moderate to high bitterness. Warming alcohol. Festive and complex.

Medium-full body with moderate to high carbonation. Warming alcohol. Smooth and rich. Some creaminess from residual sweetness.

Spiced, strong winter beers have roots in ancient Northern European traditions and English Old Ale/Barleywine. The modern winter seasonal beer emerged in the American craft beer era of the 1980s-90s, led by Anchor's Our Special Ale (brewed annually since 1975 with a different recipe each year).

What is Winter Seasonal Beer beer?

Winter Seasonal Beer (BJCP 30C) — a darker, spiced beer for cold weather. Style guide and specs.

What is the ABV of Winter Seasonal Beer?

Winter Seasonal Beer has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of varies.

How bitter is Winter Seasonal Beer beer?

Winter Seasonal Beer measures varies IBU (International Bitterness Units).

What are some examples of Winter Seasonal Beer beers?

Anchor Our Special Ale, Samuel Adams Winter Lager, Great Lakes Christmas Ale, Goose Island Christmas Ale