In a Cold Snap

Hello all, and welcome back to another winter edition of Younge's Beer Review! It's the dead of winter here in San Diego, and I've gotten a hold of a rare package of winter Brew (wink wink) that I found quite sustaining in this cold time.

This weeks selection is none other than the Samuel Adam's seasonal, Cold Snap. The winter white Ale is brewed with a medley of spice, which lend it some interesting flavors and tones. And at 5.3% ABV, it isn't too heavy to have a few of.

Starting off, the popped bottle reveals a crispy, and mild fruit nose. This would indicate apricots or figs, and smells simply wonderful. Pouring results in a dirty golden-orange body, topped with a thick head of foam. this layer maintains for a nice time, and adds a touch of cream to the finish.

Now, for the tastes. I noticed grapefruit, apricot and orange peel tones prevalent throughout the drink. A hint of plum could also be detected, but all the flavors came out towards the finish. This is not quite as fruit forward as a drink like a Belgian would be, but it packages all the flavors well nonetheless. The finish is a subtle bitterness, combined with a honeysweet-sour that could be the same grapefruit note. The hops in this beer are mild, and at only 10 IBU this is no wonder. Still, it provides a nice combination for the palate that earns it high marks.

In the end, it all comes down to what you are left with, and Cold Snap provides a crisp, refreshing reason to stay indoors while it's still cold outside. Or hell, take one with you while you're shoveling the snow off the driveway.

Score: 8/10


We'll see you again soon!
-Devin