Red Hook - Winter Hook Ale

Looking for something to warm you up in the winter, this is a good seasonal. The 6.0% ABV does not hurt either. Winter Hook is an exceptional beer and probably my favorite from Red Hook.

The beer poured a clear ruby-amber with a dense tan head with good retention.

Deep dark-fruits and floral hops dominate a very aromatic beer. In the background there was also some caramel sweetness from the roasted malts.

This is a nice hoppy winter ale that derives its warmth not only from the alcohol but through the plum, raisin and cherry like notes mixed in for comfort.

I also noted a certain earthiness (Evergreen) about the beer balanced with a bit of sweetness and with a spice back bone that holds it all together. The beer is well blended.

The ale is a medium body beer that is well carbonated that brightens up the aroma.

There is a lot going on in the beer and all for the best.

I did not find this to be an over-done winter seasonal beer, with too much spice, alcohol and body. Though it is a bit heavier than their other offerings, Winter Hook is a nice well rounded drink.