A Scottish Christmas? Traditionally the Scottish people celebrate on New Year's Day (named Hogmanay). Since the church of Scotland is the Presbyterian Church, they do not celebrate as others do as the church does not think much of the festivities of Christmas. Those who follow the Church of England keep it low key as their church does not approve of loud, unruly behavior.
Also according to my research, the Scottish folks have an odd tradition. If the fire goes out on Christmas Eve, the family will have bad luck in the coming year. According to custom, mischievous elves climb down the chimney and cause troubles in the family, however a fire in the hearth or bonfire will scare them away (dirty little elves!)
Why am I telling you about customs of a Scottish Christmas you ask? It is because I'm about to embark on a review of a Scottish Christmas Ale. I give you....
Bell's Christmas Ale
This particular beer did not produce much head in my Abbaye De Floreffe goblet which is to be expected in this particular choice of glassware and my pouring method. As I let the beer sit a moment a small head of froth appeared at the top of the glass.
This beer poured a ruby to dark red color with a cloudy appearance. The aroma is of faint spices and plum notes, almost herbal with a hint of malts and hops detected.
The taste is malty and medium bodied and although a great beer, it is a bit unremarkable for a Scottish ale in my opinion. With that said I think this is a great beer to share with family and friends around the upcoming Christmas holiday.
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6 comments:
Nice story pup.... I actually learned something!
Wish we could get the Bell's over here!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAA! Education. It burns!
How in the heck did you get this before me? Can't wait to try it. I am also looking forward to Anchor's offering. It is hit and miss with Anchor but I remember the good ones and there is always hope.
JeffreyT
Alpha! We only recieved 60 cases of this in western PA so I got lucky dude. Actually glad I didn't get an entire case.
wow a Bells I actually havent had.... damn you... Ill have to keep my eyes peeled.... Thanks pup...
It's good but the best Christmas I've had this year so far as to be Great Lakes Christmas ale. There's something just really Holiday about it (the cinnamon & honey characteristics).
Lately, I've been eyeing up Bell's Cherry Stout. Never had had it but with the budget I'm on (cursed Michigan and it's unemployment situation) I'm a little leery about dropping 16+ bucks for a 6 at the moment (unless it's a Founders of course)
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