In continuation of our Christmas beer binge, I’m posting about this Bison Christmas Ale.  As I might have mentioned before, a lot of Christmas Ales tend to be very spiced, which can be a real turn-off.  So, let me say that some beers we try will probably be this way.  However, this Bison beer is not overly spiced. 

Bison beers come from the great state of California.  The company releases Organic beers that are usually very good.  For instance, I’ve often enjoyed their Chocolate Stout.  Another of their popular brews is an India Pale Ale.  I suggest that you try some of their repertoire.

Bison Gingerbread beer was a very deep Mahogany color with little head retention.  I thought it looked very nice in the glass. 

The aromas that were evident in it were certainly dominated by the spices in it.  I caught cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in the nose (I’m glad I noticed these aromas before I saw that they were used in the beer…it’s nice to know that you were right on).  In addition, there was a bit of banana odor that came through, giving the beer a banana nut bread quality (both in aroma and taste).  As I said, the spices were evident but not overbearing.  And there was maybe a hint of chocolate on the nose of the beer. 

There was a notable touch of sweetness and small hint of coffee in the taste of the brew.  There was a long lasting and slightly dry finish in the beer.  The dry malty and grainy finish had an almost stale grain quality to it, which is not a negative quality.  All in all, I thought it was a good example of a spiced Christmas brew that didn’t punch you in the mouth with its spicy side.  Pick one up and try it.