X-Mas Ales

Tonight, I popped open one of my 2009 X-Mas Ales and one of my 2010 X-Mas Ales. Both were delicious. The 2009 is the oldest of my homebrews that I have ever tried. It was bottled 8/30/2009, and it aged very well. It is malty with a nice clove aroma and flavor. I think I even detected a hint of cherry in it. I only have 2 left, and am wondering if I can let those sit until next year.

The 2010 is just a touch drier and seems to carry a bit more bitterness. The apple pie spice taste is very festive. I like it. I do not taste the cherry as much, but I recall that being the case last year as well, so maybe that will come through more with age. I will have to save some of these for next year to see.

Merry Christmas to me.