St. Bernardus Christmas Ale

Name: St. Bernardus Christmas Ale
Brand: Beer
SKU: 52e0e6aad187e4b71000002e
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 3.85 (159127 reviews)

Belgian Strong Ale 10 º 20 IBU

Brouwerij St. Bernardus

This Belgian Winter Seasonal Beer is a masterclass in complexity, built upon a rich Quadrupel foundation. It pours a deep, mahogany brown with a thick, cream-colored head. The aroma is dominated by the legendary St. Bernardus house yeast, delivering spicy phenols and fruity esters. On the palate, a luxurious tapestry of fermented molasses, marzipan, and licorice unfolds, accented by unique notes of mint and aniseed. Hints of fire-roasted chestnuts and dark chocolate provide depth, while dried apricots add a subtle tartness. The high alcohol provides a graceful, integrated warmth, finishing with a lingering sweetness of creamy caramel and dark fruit.

Appearance. Very dark brown to mahogany (30-35 SRM) with deep ruby highlights. Large, dense, persistent cream-colored head with excellent lacing. Clear, though nearly opaque due to depth of color.

Aroma. High intensity. Complex malt profile of caramel, toasted bread, and roasted chestnuts. Pronounced spicy yeast character with deep stone fruit esters like dried apricot and plum. Distinctive notes of molasses, aniseed, and a faint, cool minty herbal quality. Alcohol is noticeable but smooth and supportive.

Taste. Rich, sweet initial impression of dark candi sugar and molasses. Deep malt flavors of caramel, chocolate, and toasted nuts. Fruit character is prominent with dried apricot, raisin, and fig. Mid-palate introduces spicy licorice and marzipan. Hop bitterness is low, providing just enough balance for the brewing sugars. Finishes long and warming with a complex interplay of spicy yeast and dried fruits.

Mouthfeel. Full-bodied and chewy with a malty thickness. Moderate to high carbonation provides a creamy, scrubbing sensation. Significant but well-integrated alcohol warmth. Smooth, velvety texture with no astringency.

Sensory Profile.