Christmas Ale

Each year Clevelanders and surrounding area citizens wait patiently for a taste of the holidays.

"It's like Christmas is running through your mouth," bar-goer Ryan Ezzone said.
Brewed with honey and spiced with fresh ginger and cinnamon and some might say a dash of crack, Great Lakes Brewery concocts this delicious beverage for every November to December. Winner of at least five beer World Championships, Christmas Ale boasts that it can make any holiday event a cheerful one. With an ABV of 7.5%, an ABW of 6.0% and an IBU of 30, this ale is known for sneaking up on you. And though it pairs well with any holiday toast or cheers according to Great Lakes, it does not mix well for a pleasant morning-after. As most will tell you, getting bit by the "Christmas Ale bug" can be a dangerous thing. But, if drunk responsibly, it can be a delightful event.
Holiday brews originated "in the Middle Ages when spices were commonly used instead of hops to add flavor and medicinal qualities to beer." In the 1900's the recipe returned in Western Europe. Brewers created holiday brews for patrons and the beers were typically lighter. Now, most breweries make darker beers and add spices like cinnamon for more holiday flavor.