Merry Christmas in July! It’s the (second) most wonderful time of the year my friends, and for me, one where I break out an assortment of delightful holiday brews purchased the year before. Most are beers I’ve enjoyed before, but that is not the case for Breckenridge Holidale Ale Aged in Whiskey Barrels. I picked up a bottle of this beauty in the winter of 2017 and stashed it away until July.
You might think drinking a strong, barrel aged ale on a hot summer afternoon seems odd, but hey, don’t people sip whiskey in the heat of July? I’m sure they do. Then too, the holiday theme of Breckenridge Holidale helps recall cold winter weather and a rare Georgia snow day. So, there is that.
Breckenridge says:
center>We’ve added even more cheer to our cherished Christmas Ale. Aged in whiskey barrels, Holidale offers toasted biscuit notes complemented by soft caramel sweetness with hints of oak and whiskey that warms the spirit. A deep red in color, this strong specialty brew makes a coveted holiday gift for beer and whiskey lovers alike.
Breckenridge Holidale has an alcohol content of 10.7% by volume with 22 IBUs. I paid $11.99 for a bomber bottle at Total Wine.
Breckenridge Holidale Ale Aged in Whiskey Barrels pours to a deep amber to mahogany color with a thick creamy head and a rich boozy whiskey nose. Taking a sip, the beer has thick caramel malt, toasted coconut, woody notes, a hint of charcoal and a big boozy whiskey finish.
Wow! This is a delicious strong ale aged on wood, and it has as might be expected held up very well indeed over about 9 months of aging. It could, I suspect, go far longer and I will be looking to pick up more for that very purpose.
And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.
*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.
(B)=Bottled
(D)=Draft