2021 Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale blends the old and the new

Similar to Chris Kringle himself, the holiday season is full of holiday traditions and new experiences. With the 2021 Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale, that combination of old and new is both on the label and in the bottle.

Anchor Brewing has a long and colorful history. Stemming from San Francisco, Anchor Brewing, whose first beer was Anchor Steam, always looked to have distinctive beers. Before breweries had niche terms, this brewery always wanted to brew and serve a distinctive beer.

Starting in 1975, the annual Christmas Ale, or Special Ale, became part of the brand’s signature offerings. While each annual version has its own unique recipe, there are some elements that connect all the beers throughout the years.

Before opening a bottle to enjoy, the bottle itself is one to be contemplated. From the gold-foiled magnum bottles to a six pack, the label design is one to appreciate while sipping that seasonal beer.

Every year, the label has a hand-drawn tree. While the color scheme has a nostalgic feel, the design comes with an explanation why this particular tree was chosen.

For the 2021 Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale, the label features the Western Joshua Tree. As stated on the label, the Western Joshua Tree symbolizes winter solstice and the renewal that happens with each season. Rich in the beauty and wonder of the California desert, the Joshua Tree is at the mercy of climate change. While fragile yet sturdy, tree can bloom, it needs balance to thrive.

As the label paints a picture, the beer inside the bottle tells a layered, nuanced story. Crafted by brewmaster Tom Riley, luscious ale features seasonal flavors but in such a way that it seems new. Beyond the first notes of bittersweet chocolate, the light mulling spices intrigue. Even though no one wants to parse out each spice, it has a moment of familiar yet slightly different. In some ways that raspberry note helps to make all the other flavors a little more rounded.

At 7% ABV, this ale would make a lovely after dinner beverage. Another option would be to pair it with a dessert course. A pear tart might be a lovely option for a holiday meal pairing.

Many people will purchase the 2021 Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale because it has become an annual tradition. Even if one year’s brew may not be a favorite, the tradition of opening a magnum on Christmas Eve or raising a toast on New Year’s Eve cannot be missed,

While the beer is always the star, there is another reason to buy a bottle or a six-pack. Since the Christmas Ale is nothing without its tree label, this year’s release benefits One Tree Planted. Proceeds from the sales will help to assist in global reforestation.

The 2021 Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale is available at various stores now. Check with local retailers or the brand’s website for locations.

This holiday season raise an anchor on holiday traditions worth keeping. Anchor Brewing has that is perfect for that season of good cheer.