Anderson Valley Brewing Winter Solstice
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What the brewers say
“Boasting a deep amber hue and rich mouthfeel, the creamy nish will lift your spirits. Hints of toffee, spice, and caramel tease the senses making this the perfect ale to share during the cold days and long nights of winter.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Initially oral, earthy hops come through, but then a pleasant chocolate aroma. It is almost like fresh baked chocolate cake with a little vanilla and even sweet biscuit notes. Faint hints of spice. A very faint whiff of alcohol.”
Flavor: “First impression is of plums and cinnamon, followed by nutmeg and medium toffee. Pumpkin-pie spice and vanilla. Understated hops bitterness delivers without overpowering. Similar to the aroma, but much more intense. A slight warmth from the alcohol, but does well to help cut the sweetness.”
Overall: “An enjoyable wintertime ale. Sipping this beer over a period of time reveals complex malt and spice notes. There’s just enough bitterness to make it not cloying. The vanilla and caramel notes go together nicely. A pleasantly surprising beer with some very interest- ing avors that work well with the style.”
