Santa’s Choice

January 1, 2009 By Don Russell

Over the years, any number of breweries would claim to make Santa’s favorite brew.

“Join Mr. Claus (who has a fond regard for the best things in life) in drinking tangy, foamy and delicious Point Special,” the Wisconsin brewery advised in one newspaper advertisement.

New Yorkers countered: “The very best he ever tasted is what Santa Claus says about Koch’s beer, and no one can deny that he knows.”

In fact, we can only really guess his favorite brand.

Is Santa a hophead? Sierra Nevada Celebration or Fish Tale WinterFish are naturals. Heck, he might even give He’brew Jewbellation a try. Last year’s version was a Double IPA.

Does he favor malt monsters? Paper City’s Winter Palace Wee Heavy is smooth with a sweet finish. Weeping Radish Christmas Beer is a double bock.

Spice? The classic is Anchor Our Special Ale, made with a different variety of secret spices every year. Bethlehem Brew Works’ Rude Elf’s Reserve is made with cinnamon, sweet gale, cloves, coriander, nutmeg and allspice.

Fruit? Michelob Celebrate is made with cherries, and so is Troegs Mad Elf.

High alcohol? Port Brewing’s Santa’s Little Helper (a/k/a Santa’s Little Hangover) will raise his spirits with 10.5 percent alcohol by volume. Denmark’s Mikkeller makes a holiday beer by the same name that reaches 11 percent ABV.

The point is, Santa can find a Christmas beer to fit any taste.