Christmas Ale (2020)

‘Tis the season for our 46th annual Christmas Ale release! Our secret recipe is at work again, with this year’s ale being the darkest and highest ABV (7%) we’ve ever released. With rich, chocolatey flavors and a smooth, easy-drinking profile, this is a Special Ale to remember! The Sequoia trees on the label are Yosemite’s famous Three Graces, Sequoiadendron giganteum, chosen to represent togetherness in a year when we had to spend so much time apart.

Along with an evolving recipe, Christmas Ale portrays a new label every year. Since ancient times, trees have symbolized the winter solstice when the earth, with its seasons, appears born anew. The tree on this year’s label was hand-drawn by Bay Area artist James Stitt, who has been creating Anchor’s Christmas Ale labels since 1975.

Anchor Christmas Ale is perfect for cozy nights by the fire, and it pairs well with holiday fare, whether it is a roasted turkey dinner, sweet potato pie, or roasted chestnuts. A beloved tradition for many Anchor fans is to collect multiple years of Christmas Ale. Stored in a dark and cool place, the beer remains intriguing and drinkable for years. Different nuances emerge as the flavor mellows slightly, much like the memories of great holiday seasons past. The beer’s wintry spiced flavors evolve, making vertical tastings a tasty holiday activity. Celebrate the holidays with Anchor Christmas Ale, a tradition since 1975. Show Less