As is expected from the St Bernardus brewery, this is a fantastic example of a Belgian Christmas beer (Kerstbier). It is typically very dark brown to black, with deep ruby hues and capped by twoto three fingers of tan head which lasts.
The nose is of dark sweet fruits, candied sugar and the typical Belgian yeast. The taste is at once sweet, full and long. Raisins, plums and prunes merge with the sweet caramel and gentle spice flavours of clove, nutmeg and cinnamon. The beer is perfectly balanced, with the alcohol well hidden in the abundant flavours – until the gently satisfying warmth kicks in.
This is surely a beer to sip and savour, perfect for winter nights or just as the ideal beer to finish a tasting session. Enjoy now, or else cellar like a good wine. This beer can be kept for many years.