#52BottlesOfBeer 49: Whistler Brewing Winter Dunkel

I gazed at the calendar, and realized that December is now upon us. In just a few short days, Christmas and the New Year will be here!

That realization made me realize something else: it was that time of year, when I check out the Winter/Christmas themed craft beers available in my local liquor store...

Whistler Brewing's Winter Dunkel has a nice little label to it. The colours are a warm and cozy combination of orange and brown. It brings to mind a hot chocolate, gently drifting snowflakes, and loved ones gathered around a crackling campfire as we ride sleds down a country hillside. It's soothing and relaxing.

I really loved the font style and the texture used for the word "Dunkel". This, along with the art style of the orange slices, chocolate slabs, and the background bring to mind some of the illustrations you'd find in old style greeting cards and books.

This seasonal offering of cheer has a deep, golden amber colour to it that hints strongly at the orange and chocolate flavours involved. It's clear as starlight, and crisp as that first winter inhalation. The only word I can think of to describe the colour and clarity is, "gorgeous".

The first sip was a joyful experience. My taste buds danced with the mingling flavours of oranges, and dark chocolate. That first sip brought a sigh of pleasure and relaxation to my lips. My mind thought of tinsel and baubles on the tree. As I sipped, I closed my eyes, and just felt restful and content with the moment. My mind wandered over fond Christmas memories: setting up the Nativity Scene, waking up early to sit in front of the tree and gaze at the decorations, opening up our stocking gifts, and the smell of Dad making pancakes for breakfast.

The duet of orange and chocolate is delicately- and perfectly balanced in this Winter Dunkel. They are in partnership, with no one flavour over riding the other. It's a soothing, and enjoyable experience. At a mellow 5% alcohol level, it doesn't leave you feeling tired or heavy. In fact, the strength of the beer is subtly hidden behind the primary orange and chocolate tastes.

Whistler Brewing's Winter Dunkel is a beer that I would absolutely enjoy more than once... In fact, I'm going to go grab a couple more from the store so I can enjoy it while doing a bit of decorating, while listening to some Christmas music. A wintery "Good".

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