December Beer O' The Month: "Holidale" by Berkshire Brewing Company

"Forty ounces" aren't just for gangsta rappers or hobo train jumpers, or gangsta rapping hobo jumpers. Craft brewers like The Berkshire Brewing make their brew readily available in these quantities across New England, (unfortunately not available nationwide...YET...and that might be a good thing) and like one of my go-to brews, "Dean's Beans Coffeehouse Porter" is by far the best coffee infused beer I've tasted, although Samuel Adams' "Black & Brew" is giving it a run for it's money.

That brings me to this month's selection, Berkshire's "Holidale" Holiday Barley Wine. Make no mistake, this IS BEER, not wine. It's a holiday beer infused with floral hops, citrus & caramel notes. A brilliant amber in color, this holiday brew packs a sneaky kick. If you're in the New England area, I strongly recommend you try one of their many selections this winter, like their "Cabin Fever Ale" & "Russian Imperial Stout." Hey, if you're up this way, (or down this way if you're Canadian, ay!) look up Uncle Rummy and I'll give you the 411 on all the local beer haunts. In the meantime, I had a few other @2mugsff tweeps suggest some stellar winter selections... 

is singing my song with his selection of Samuel Adams "Winter Lager," available nationwide and a crowd pleaser at holiday gatherings. Never overpowering, "Winter Lager" has hints of spice and citrus and is easy drinking. Good call, Big Time Timmy Jims.

offered up local craft brew "Legend Winter White" from the Legend Brewing Co. in Richmond, Virginia. The "White Lager" is made with Belgian malts and Trappist yeast (Rummy approved!), with hints of citrus and spice. Makes me want to take a road trip just to watch this brew crafted. While it's only locally available, I checked out their site, and I liked what I saw. Local craft brewers deserve our loyal support, and good looking out to Andy for pointing them out.

Hit me up or our guy on Twitter for other winter beer recommendations, and you might find yourself in good company on this page! In any case, drink responsibly...which means no chain saw juggling, and Happy Holidays. Cheers!