It seems like this is perfect for Christmas Eve, and I have my brother to thank for this offering of hops! He's in Texas, and he sent this right from their backyard. I don't mean literally. At least, I hope I don't. If he's been brewing beer and not telling me about it, I'm going to have to have words with him about his priorities.
First sip shows me what the difference is. The spices are very far forward like a winter warmer might be, and the hops, though strident, fade into the background in comparison. I'm not even sure this is a wise choice, as the spices really need a stronger malt to really enjoy. But, as with many beers that are heavy in flavor, a sip does this a disservice. That's why I gulp.
Tip in is moderate carbonation with a caramel malt, figs, nutmeg, and clove. The middle turns soothing as the spices mellow out and let the caramel malt carry them with pine and it's wake. The finish is an abrupt end to the smoothness with bitterness descending on top of the pine while the spices remain and the caramel disappears entirely before the spices start to get a little funky in the trail off.
Bottom Line: An interesting take, but it will not supplant a winter warmer.
2.5/5