TRADITION, TRADITION cries out Tevye in Fiddle on the Roof. I think a lot is to be said for tradition. While beer styles keep evolving and expanding, and I'm glad they are because life and beer could get boring without a creative process and explorers willing to push the boundaries. Still, there is much to be said for continuing a thing over the course of many years. If you do so, there is a chance that it will be carried on to the next generation… whether family or beer enthusiasts.

No other beer cries out tradition like Anchor Brewing Christmas Ale. A new year, a new beer, a unique label (peek at the history of the labels) … for 45 years. As someone that appreciates good beer, I just want to be part of that in my own small way. There are few beers I look forward to as the days grow short, sweater season arrives and the Holiday season approaches. A few I enjoy with anticipation are Tröegs Mad Elf, Samuel Smith Winter Welcome, and of course Anchor’s Christmas Ale.

The Anchor website is full of cheer about their latest incarnation of the Christmas Ale. They will tell you how to enjoy it, about the graphic artist that creates the label, who brews the beer… but not what’s in it. Ah, a sense of mystery and anticipation.

It’s always a good idea to grab these seasonal beers when they first arrive on the shelves because if you wait too long when you want them they will be gone. I always find the Christmas Ale very drinkable, not too far in any direction, tasty and great with seasonal foods and attitudes. Become part of the tradition.