You know what happens at 4:30 on a Monday afternoon when you can’t think of an idea for a blog post? You do what any good American would do and pull something completely out of your repertoire (That’s French for ass, right?). Two things. First, it’s been over 6 months since we’ve posted anything resembling a poll on Aleheads. In that time we’ve gained roughly 100 times the viewership and have sponsors banging down our doors just to get a piece of this sweet action*. While polls of the past have been met with somewhat lackluster results, I’m hoping for a better turnout this time around.
*Yeah, that’s a blatant lie. It’s still just you and me that read this thing.
Second, which actually has something to do with beer, I hate so-called “Seasonal” beers. It’s not that I hate the beers that come out in concurrence with a particular season, it’s just that I hate things labeled “Winter Ale” when there’s no rhyme or reason to the labeling. With that, can some of you please tackle this poll to tell me exactly what I should be drinking this Winter season (Yes, I know it’s the Fall, I don’t care)? I’ve left off styles such as Imperial IPA’s/Stouts and Belgian Strong Dark Ales on purpose. I already know I should be drinking those. The rest of this poll needs answering though.
So, what’s your favorite “Winter” seasonal style?
ALEHEADS 
You will never guess what I voted for.
Perfect. As I occasionally stop in to read y’alls reviews but have yet to find the drive to either reply or draft up a post of my own, kudos to the idea of being able to participate with the click of a button. Just my speed. BTW – I read this poll just after opening a solid contender in the category – Avery’s Jubilation Ale. No foofy description here, but its tasty and right for the season. I’d give it 3 hops on your scale, but since I’ve got it right here in my hand, I’m gonna add an extra .5 hop just for proximity.
Thanks for the kind words, Herr Direktor. As much as I try to grab every beer from every great brewery, my knowledge of domestic Winter seasonals is severely lacking (I’m more of a Belgian Winter guy). Avery is certainly one of my favorite breweries so I’ll be sure to grab the Jubliation based on your recommendation. “Tasty and right for the season” is just about all I’m looking for in a Winter brew.
Should Harpoon’s Winter Warmer be its own category or a write-in candidate?
Sure, I guess I should have created an “Abomination” category as a catch-all for beers like the Harpoon Winter Warmer. It’s so tough to peg something that resembles a sweet potato soaked in cinnamon, nutmeg, and anti-freeze.