In the constant search for the perfect winter ale comes a strong local entry from Northern Lights, a brewery that should be celebrated more around this part, as they often deliver excellent products.

And their Winter Ale is good. Definitely up there with Jubelale, and a worthy opponent for my current ‘09/10 winter favorite from Nøgne Ø.

The ale pours a dark amber color with a good couple of fingers of thick head. Give it a whiff and it smells like what I’d imagine Santa’s cologne would smell like: lightly pine-y with hints of citrus. Yes. I am saying this winter ale smells like Christmas, and I am OK with that,

Heck, it even tastes like Christmas. Nicely hopped, and gives a gentle kick in the teeth. You’re not going to loose the teeth, but rather enjoy the strength of the kick. You know what I mean. It’s hoppy, yet not too hoppy. The citrus carries over to the flavor, with some nice hints of caramel, and a slightly dry finish. For whatever reason I imagine this one going well with a clementine.

So hey, if you really are the locavore you claim to be, then check out Northern Lights’ Winter Ale. It’s a really nice one.