Okay, it’s official. Winter Beers have arrived. Yes, some seasonal brews have showed up on the shelves in recent weeks, but for me the annual release of Jolly Roger Christmas Ale officially marks the kickoff of winter beer season. Jolly Roger is a Seattle beer tradition dating back to the early 1990s.
This coming Tuesday, November 11, at 5:00 P.M., Maritime Pacific Brewery releases the 2014 version of Jolly Roger Christmas Ale.
The release party at the Jolly Roger Taproom offers an opportunity to try five different versions of the beer: 2014 Jolly Roger, 2013 Jolly Roger, Rum Oak Aged Jolly Roger, Brandied Cherry Jolly Roger, and a special one-of-a-kind Bourbon Barreled 2013 Jolly Roger. Taster flights are available.
Jolly Roger gets its unique flavor and aroma from the blending of five different grains with three different hops. Clocking in at nine percent ABV and 52 IBUs, this one is ready to drink right now or tucked away in the cellar for up to five years.