Simple Things Fermentations - Christmas Ale

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a proper festive beer, and Glasgow's Simple Things Fermentations has delivered another wonderfully indulgent seasonal treat! Returning for its fifth annual release, Belgian Christmas Ale 2025 is a beautifully crafted 6.3% dark Belgian-style ale that captures the comforting flavours of the festive season without relying on traditional Christmas spices. Brewed with a carefully selected combination of Maris Otter, CaraGold, Chocolate, Pale Chocolate and Special B malts, this magnificent winter warmer showcases the extraordinary depth and complexity that can be achieved through rich speciality malts and expressive Belgian-style fermentation.

Pouring an almost impenetrable dark brown, Belgian Christmas Ale offers enticing aromas of luxurious cherry liqueur chocolates, freshly roasted coffee and rich dark malt. Chocolate and Pale Chocolate malts introduce beautifully rounded cocoa and roasted coffee notes, while Special B contributes luscious dark fruit complexity reminiscent of caramelised sugar, raisins and rich fruitcake. The Belgian-style yeast adds a delicate fruity character, beautifully complementing the beer's darker malt flavours, while Magnum and Saaz hops provide a subtle herbal and earthy counterpoint to the indulgent sweetness.

Despite its wonderfully rich appearance, Belgian Christmas Ale is surprisingly light and smooth on the palate, delivering a beautifully balanced combination of dark chocolate, fruity Belgian yeast character and gentle roasted malt. The finish is silky, softly fruity and remarkably drinkable, with just enough hop bitterness to keep everything in perfect harmony. A superb festive indulgence that combines the sophistication of traditional Belgian brewing with the distinctive character of one of Scotland's most inventive independent breweries. Perfect for a cosy winter evening, preferably with the Christmas decorations up and absolutely nowhere else to be!