In the midst of last minute shopping on Dec 24th, I stopped to pick up some holiday beers to bring along on the Christmas party circuit. Based on how much I liked Wachusett's Green Monsta Ale, I was eyeing their Winter Ale - but scotch ale's just don't do it for me. While looking for alternatives, the clerk at the package store recommended Blue Moon's Full Moon Winter Ale.
Its a deep reddish brown color, with a nice velvety head. The aroma is sweet, body is medium - not too sweet or cloying. The alcohol is listed at 5.9%, less than a classic Belgian Abbey ale, but this works in its favor - as stronger beers brewed by bigger breweries in the US are almost always too sweet. And Blue Moon is a Coors/Molson brand - so its a big brewery product - middle of road with a focus on consistently.
Its nicely balanced, with subtle chocolate, nutmeg/allspice notes. The addition of dark Belgian sugar works well - adds a little complexity. Its a different take on the winter ale, pretty good - worth a shot. It won't replace any of your Belgian abbey favorites, but will suit a holiday party just fine.
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