Top Five Winter Lagers

Everyone loves a good cold brew and the rich, filling taste of winter lagers just hit the spot during this time of year. Everyone seems to have their favorite and usually stick to it. However, there are some winter lagers you probably haven't tried that could turn into a new favorite.

5. Samuel Adams "Winter Lager" - The generic and most available choice. This has been a household favorite in my family for years and still remains a stalwart. It comes in Spiced Lager of Weizenbock and is brewed in Massachusetts. This great seasonal lager comes as a great value too, $1.25 for a 12 oz. bottle. This dark lager is highly carbonated with subtle tastes of oranges, walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon. If you have this drink, you might have the urge to get your hands on some cinnamon cookies and gingerbread houses as well.

4. Weihenstephaner "Korbinian" - A tough winter lager to find, but if you do it is definitely worth the try. Brewed all year round in Germany this Dopplebock lager goes for $3 for a 16 oz. bottle. Let's face it, German's know there beer and to pass up an opportunity to relax with this dark lager would just be a complete injustice. When the liquid first hits your lips you get the taste of a trail mix of flavors and the after taste will remind you of a distinct raisin you had growing up. This is lager you can enjoy before dinner as well.

3. Hair of the Dog "Doggie Claws" - A very dry, strong lager, Doggie Claws is one of the best season lagers around. With a hint of orange and other great fruits, this is lager full of taste and delight. Brewed in Oregon, this American Barleywine is sure to be a hit at your holiday parties or if you just want to share a moment with your spouse. A bit on the expensive side at $5 per 12 oz. bottle, Doggie Claws taste definitely makes up for the few extra bucks.

2. Great Divide "Hibernation Ale" - At $2.50 per 12 oz. bottle this American Strong Ale should be added to every winter lager enthusiasts collection. Brewed strong in Colorado, with the taste of caramel malt and milk chocolate this dark ale is also an excellent stocking stuffer. The best time to have Hibernation Ale? Store a few cases in cool, dark place for a year, and bring them out the next holiday season. Absolute perfection.

1. Sierra Nevada "Celebration Ale" - The combination of a great price ($1.50 per 12 oz. bottle), a great name, and a strong but not too filling great taste jolts Celebration Ale to the top of the list. An American IPA brewed in California seasonally, this drink is sure to satisfy your every need this season and has been for those who have known about it the past 15 years. The flavor jumps out of the bottle at you when you open it up and the taste is indescribable. You'll just have to go pick some up.