Beer Review: Anchor Brewing's Our Special Ale (2011 Version)

Greetings.

Today's beer review is for Anchor Brewing Company's annual Christmas Ale, which they call "Our Special Ale".

Each year that they brew it, they make subtle changes to the spices that are used in this ale, but the basis for the brew remains the same.  This year's version beckons, so let's rate it.

The beer pours a dark ruby brown color with a lingering tan head.  Aroma is all spices, I believe this year they are using cloves, nutmeg and maybe a little cinnamon.

The taste is overwhelmed by the spices.  In fact, this beer tastes a little like a clove cigarette.  I am utterly disappointed with this beer this year.  In year's past this beer has been awesome, whereas this year's version is an insult.

I'm halfway tempted to send my review to Anchor to voice my displeasure with this year's version.

I am not a beer expert, but I AM a beer snob.  In my opinion, there is NEVER a time to use cloves in beer.  It's like putting turds in a punchbowl, you ruin it for everyone.

In conclusion, I rate this year's version of the beer only 2 out of 5 stars.  What a disappointment.

With the holiday weekend fast approaching, I will not be posting a beer review tomorrow since I will be on the road.  I will attempt to post a beer review on Saturday when I have access to a computer.

Thanks for reading and I will see you again soon!