Living in North Carolina, I can only dream of actually having a white Christmas, but after this weekend and the amount of flurries we got I am holding out hope this year will be different. Considering most winters here in NC are mild with the occasional freezing rain and not a chance of snow, it was a welcomed sight to have an early preview of what this winter season might have in store. Being a transplant from Chicago, the holidays just don't have the same feel without any snow. After the previous winter season and its multiple snow storms, I am optimistic that this trend will continue as I have all my winter warmer companions ready to keep me toasty as the cold weather moves in early and hopefully to stay. Some of my personal favorites include: Highland Brewing Cold Mountain Winter Ale, Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale, Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale, Great Divide Hibernation Ale, and Samuel Smith's Winter Welcome Ale. These just represent the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the winter seasonal beers that are available regionally throughout the country. Go to your favorite beer shop and check a few out to share with family and friends and see what you like as each is unique in their own way!
On another note, this past Sunday represented the 77th anniversary of when Prohibition was repealed in this country. In an effort to make this country more sober, the 18th Amendment was passed in the year 1919 to end the production and distribution of alcohol. Instead of curbing one's thirst for such libations the opposite effect occurred and the fight for our right to enjoy a tasty beverage ensued. It took a long 14 years of opposition and on December 5th, 1933, the 21st Amendment was passed marking an end to Prohibition as this day is now known as 'Repeal Day'. So to everyone who had a beer this past Sunday I raise my glass and salute you. Cheers! 
To keep with the season and to celebrate this past weekend's first snow, 'Repeal Day', and yet another Chicago Bears victory (DA BEARS!), I bring you this one of a kind brew from Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales. The 'Noel de Calabaza' Special Ale, literally translated to 'holiday of pumpkin', is a winter seasonal release with a twist. Per their website, this beer is described as a, "deep mahogany and malty, layered hops, figs, raisins, sugar plums, cashews betwixt rum laden truffles", kind of beer. It is rooted in the style of a Belgian Christmas ale then aged in oak barrels for further complexities. It's a well-balanced medley of flavors and spices to create a unique drinking experience as the aroma hints at the taste of a nice sweet tartness that finishes with a bit of sour on the palette. This beer comes in at 9% ABV, but you would never know it as it sure is quaffable. Cheers!
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