While Sonoma County resident's will miss out on Brown Shugga this winter, there are still Christmas beers to be had from local brewers. Lagunitas replaced the festive barleywine with a one-time hoppy release. Further north, Bear Republic has released their own Christmas beer, a chocolate infused German-styled wheat beer by the name of Old Saint Chongo.
Name: Old Saint Chongo
Style: Winter Warmer
ABV: 7.6%
IBU:35
Description:
This winter warmer is brewed with winter fireside contemplation in mind. Rich malts are complemented by cocoa nibs and Mexican Chocolate, while the German wheat beer yeast strain lends banana-rama goodness. Old Saint Chongo, patron saint of our monkey friends, requested this beer himself. Relax in your favorite recliner and enjoy this banana split in a glass.
Rich and chocolatey, Old Saint Chongo is a unique entry into the world of Christmas beers. Incredibly soft all around, the only bitterness comes in the form of a touch of chocolate in the finish. For those who want an alternative to the typically hoppy Sonoma County beers, Chongo will be a welcome addition.
Look for Old Saint Chongo around Sonoma County and the Bay Area as limites supplies have been releaed to distributors. Toad in the Hole near Santa Rosa's Railroad Square will be featuring the beer as part of the upcoming Christmas-themed Real Ale Night on Tuesday with live music and a selection of holiday themed beers you can drink at the pub as well as take home.
If you're heading to Healdsburg, be sure to stop by the bar and grab a pint from Ryan. While you're at it, wish him a Merry Christmas and congratulations on the upcoming baby due in to arrive in 2012.
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