Favorite Christmas Ales from the Great Lakes Region

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There’s Nothing Better on a Cool Winter Evening than a Warm Fire and a Frothy Pint of Holiday Cheer

photo of Christmas ale beer on barIn this In The Mix blog, we highlight some of the top Christmas ales from the Great Lakes Region. ProQuip is located in Northeast Ohio along the shores of Lake Erie.

Beer and beverage manufacturers depend on ProQuip industrial tank agitators for a wide range of processing objectives.  Our durable and efficient tank agitators help these producers meet requirements for consistency, quality and freshness.

Many find the Great Lakes region to be one of the best locations in the U.S. for winter enjoyment. Snowy landscapes, crisp air, and festive traditions make it an enchanting place to celebrate the season. Adding to the holiday spirit are the region’s breweries, which craft an impressive lineup of Christmas ales each year.

These festive brews are often enhanced with spices, malts, and other seasonal ingredients, creating a range of flavors that embody the coziness of the holidays. This article highlights some of the best Christmas ales from the Great Lakes region and its neighbors.

1. Great Lakes Brewing Co. – Christmas Ale

  • Location: Cleveland, Ohio
  • ABV: 7.5%

The flagship holiday beer from our Northeast Ohio home, Great Lakes Christmas Ale is a rich and flavorful brew made with honey, cinnamon, and ginger. Its malty base and balanced sweetness make it a must-have for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. Pour into a frosty glass with a cinnamon sugar rim, and you have a delectable treat. 

2. Three Floyds Brewing – Alpha Klaus

  • Location: Munster, Indiana
  • ABV: 6.0%

This Christmas porter is a hop-forward holiday beer with flavors of roasted malt, chocolate, and pine. Brewed with English chocolate malt and Mexican sugar, Alpha Klaus is perfect for those who enjoy bold and slightly unconventional seasonal ales.

3. Bell’s Brewery – Christmas Ale

  • Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan
  • ABV: 7.5%

Bell’s Christmas Ale is a Scotch Ale brewed with 100% Michigan-grown barley. Its smooth, malty sweetness and subtle caramel notes offer a traditional winter beer experience. Perfect for pairing with hearty holiday meals.

4. New Glarus Brewing – Fat Squirrel

  • Location: New Glarus, Wisconsin
  • ABV: 5.8%

While not explicitly labeled a Christmas beer, Fat Squirrel’s roasted nutty flavors and malty profile make it a winter favorite in Wisconsin. This nut brown ale delivers warmth and comfort with every sip, making it a seasonal staple.

5. Market Garden Brewery – Festivus

  • Location: Cleveland, Ohio
  • ABV: 7.5%

Named after the beloved holiday “for the rest of us,” Festivus is brewed with dark roasted malts and holiday spices, delivering a rich, festive flavor. Its smooth finish and seasonal aroma make it a go-to beer for celebrations in Northeast Ohio.

6. Southern Tier –  2XMAS Spiced Double Ale

  • Location: New York
  • ABV: 8%

The “2X” in this beer’s name means more spice, more bold and more alcohol. This beer is crafted with fig paste, orange peels, ginger root, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Inspired by the traditional European holiday drink Glögg, Southern Tier 2XMAS offers flavors of caramel malts, holiday spices, dried fruits, and a subtle finish of floral, herbal hops. It’s basically liquid fruitcake and must be experienced to be believed.

7. Troegs Independent Brewing – Mad Elf

  • Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania
  • ABV: 11%

This strong Belgian-style ale is brewed with honey and cherries, making it a sweet and fruity holiday treat. With its high ABV and unique flavor profile, Mad Elf stands out as one of the most distinctive and beloved Christmas beers available nationwide.

For More Information

The Great Lakes region is home to a variety of breweries crafting unique and flavorful Christmas ales each year. From classic winter ales to innovative seasonal brews, these beers bring warmth and joy to the coldest months. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or relaxing by the fire, there’s a perfect Christmas ale for every occasion.

For mixing solutions in brewing and distilling, contact ProQuip at applications@proquipinc.com or call us at 330-468-1850.