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Christmas Brews: A Toast to the Dark
As we approach the festive season, craft brewers across New Mexico are embracing the warmth of dark beers in an oaky embrace of rich flavors and comforting aromas. In the wake of this year's beer releases, a distinct trend emerges: stouts, porters, and other dark ales dominate the offerings, perfect for the long winter nights ahead.
The Dark Side of Christmas
This week, beer lovers will find a plethora of new options to enjoy. Not only are these dark selections pleasing to the palate, but they also embody the spirit of the season. Stoutmeister has highlighted several noteworthy releases that celebrate this theme:
- A Policeman’s Dream: This coffee-and-donut pastry stout pays homage to the cult classic show "Twin Peaks," reminding us that even the most whimsical ideas can brew up something delicious.
- Midnight Zephyr Schwarzbier: This addition from Sidetrack features a rich, dark flavor profile that highlights the baking chocolate notes that make winter beers feel so seasonal.
- Night Hike: A Czech dark lager from Gravity Bound that’s smooth and malty, offering a perfect fit for those chilly evenings by the fire.
A Week of Events and Releases
Despite it being a quieter week due to the holidays, local breweries aren’t entirely shutting their doors. Many are encouraging connoisseurs to explore their taprooms. With Christmas Day NFL games drawing attention, it’s an excellent opportunity to taste and indulge. It’s also a good moment to appreciate darker beers like the delicious stockpile stout from Bombs Away. Here's what to look out for:
- Holiday Pop-Up Event: Today at Sidetrack, Three Pins Biscuits is making a return, so don't miss out on pairing great food with even better beers.
- Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest: Friday evening brings some fun where attendees can wear their most festive attire at the final contest hosted by Sunday Service Motor Co.
- Special Festivities at Unhinged: This Saturday, attendees are encouraged to don medieval garb for a Jest-A-Fest featuring discounts and awash in holiday spirit.
The Future of Beer Trends
In the world of craft beer, trends ebb and flow. This year, individual perspectives on Christmas ales seem to highlight a shift. While traditional flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg bring nostalgic warmth, many beer enthusiasts are savoring options that ditch the usual spicing for pure malt complexity.
As highlighted in the notes from the Syracuse.com team, the modern drinker seems to favor beers that can stand on their own, with balanced flavors taking precedence over seasonal gimmicks. From chocolate porters to rich winter warmers, there's a niche for everyone as breweries refine their practices.
Your Weekly Beer Lineup
Adventurous drinkers might explore some of the offerings from local breweries like Bosque Brewing Company’s Driftwood oatmeal stout or the Drunk Astronaut DIPA from Boese Brothers Brewing. Each of these brings its unique character, contributing to the rich tapestry of seasonal offerings.
Support Your Local Breweries
Many breweries are juggling challenging times, with Bosque Brewing recently making headlines over bankruptcy processes and closings. It's essential for the community to support local craft breweries during this time by participating in events, purchasing their beers, and sharing. The festive season is an opportune moment to rally behind your favorite local brewers, help sustain their legacy, and enjoy incredibly crafted beers.
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