UPDATE: Ohio’s craft beer scene is buzzing with festive flavors as local breweries unveil their highly anticipated Christmas ales just in time for the holiday season. Beer enthusiasts can now celebrate with five standout brews, each representing a different city across the Buckeye State.
RIGHT NOW: Our December review highlights unique holiday ales that are already hitting local store shelves, making them a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their seasonal gatherings. Each of these beers offers a distinctive taste profile sure to please both casual drinkers and craft beer aficionados alike.
ATHENS: First up is Jackie O’s Christmas Ale, boasting a smooth 6.5% ABV. This brew features subtle spices and a hint of honey sweetness, finishing with a pleasant burnt toast note. Ideal for a cozy evening by the fire, it embodies the spirit of the season.
CANAL WINCHESTER: Next, we have BrewDog’s Winter Staycation, a rich stout with a 7.5% ABV. Expect flavors of chocolate and a delicate nuttiness, complemented by notes of coconut and hazelnut. This medium-bodied beer is perfect for those cold winter nights.
CINCINNATI: Madtree Brewing Co. brings us Holly Days, an India Pale Ale with spruce tips at 6.8% ABV. This beer harmonizes the flavors of hops and pine without overwhelming the palate, making it a refreshing choice for holiday festivities.
CLEVELAND: The Collision Bend Brewing Co. delivers a smooth and balanced Amber Ale named Christmas Staycation, also at 6.8% ABV. It features a light spice profile that lingers on the palate, creating a delightful drinking experience.
COLUMBUS: Finally, Land Grant Brewing Co. introduces its Cornelius Hoppy Holiday Lager, a lighter offering at 6% ABV. This lager surprises with grapefruit and citrus notes, straying from traditional holiday flavors but providing a refreshing twist.
THIS MONTH’S FAVORITE: After careful consideration, we crown Collision Bend’s Christmas Staycation as this month’s top pick, blending smoothness and flavor perfectly.
In addition to these exceptional brews, local brewery news is heating up:
– Nano Brew’s Holidayland Christmas Bar is back, featuring a new Polar Pint Shack open daily through December 31. Operating hours are 4 to 10 PM Monday to Wednesday, 4 PM to midnight Thursday, and noon to 2:30 AM Friday and Saturday.
– HiHO Brewing is hosting an Ugly Sweater Karaoke event on December 16 from 7 to 10 PM at 1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls.
– Tickets for the Winter Warmer Fest on March 7 in Cleveland are now available. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exciting beer festival.
– Warped Wing Brewing Co. from Dayton is also making headlines with the launch of its first non-alcoholic beer, Zero Altitude IPA.
With Ohio’s breweries stepping up their game, there’s never been a better time to explore local seasonal flavors. Grab your favorites from retail shops like Heinen’s, Red, Wine & Brew, Acme, Giant Eagle, Mustard Seed Market, and Whole Foods, and let the holiday spirit flow!
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to track the latest developments in Ohio’s vibrant craft beer scene this holiday season. Cheers to the festive flavors that await!
