Anchor Brewing Company announces the release of our Christmas Ale for 2012, an Anchor tradition now in its thirty-eighth year.
Every year since 1975, the brewers of Anchor Steam® Beer have created a distinctive Christmas Ale. The Ale’s recipe is different every year — as is the hand drawn tree on the label — but the intent with which we offer it remains the same: joy and celebration of the newness of life.
Since ancient times, trees have symbolized the winter solstice when the earth, with its seasons, appears born anew. For this year’s Christmas Ale, we have selected the Norfolk Island pine. Captain Cook discovered this South Seas isle and its native tree in 1774. These tropical-looking conifers, which thrive in sandy soil and coastal climes, were first planted in California in the 1850s. The Norfolk Island pine on this year’s label resides in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.
When properly stored, our Christmas Ale remains intriguing and drinkable for years to come. Over time, different nuances emerge as the beer’s flavors mellow slightly, much like the memories of great holiday seasons past. We invite you to take part in one of our most treasured traditions and enjoy Christmas Ale as you create new memories this holiday season.
Anchor’s Christmas Ale is available nationally in 6-packs and magnums (1.5L), and on draught from early November to mid-January.
