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Say what you will about Cleveland, but amidst a Chirstmas light-strewn plaza, an Ohio State victory excitement, and craft breweries bursting at the seams to share their latest creations, there’s nothing to dislike (unless you’re a Michigan fan, of course.) The Winter Wine & Ale Fest that took place downtown last Saturday consisted of 13 breweries from the Cleveland area as well as several wineries and restaurants. The brewers were well-represented at this festival, as were their newly released winter ales.
Elevator Brewery was the first to draw my attention. A crowd was drawn in by the Bleeding Buckeye Red Ale – clearly the excitement over OSU’s victory hadn’t worn off yet. Buckeye Brewing enjoyed a similar phenomenon. This city loves their football. My indifference to football and excitement for Winter Ales led me elsewhere, however, and I wound up at Cellar Rats Brewery with a fake tattoo on my arm and a “Festivus for the rest of us” ale in my glass. My winter beer crawl had begun.
The Brew Kettle immediately won the award for most distinguishable with their Kitka Chocolate Coconut Imperial Milk Stout. The unmistakable coconut punch stood out from all of the other seasonals. If coconut is your thing, you’ll want to check them out.
I found my first favorite at Thirsty Dog Brewing Co in their 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale. The nutmeg, cinnamon, and honey are reminiscent of a freshly baked cookie. What else can you ask for from a winter warmer?
Ohio Brewing Co also sticks out as a winner. Their seasonal – Jingle Bells – has a happy balance of cocoa and hops. The subtle hints of cloves and vanilla in the aftertaste make this beautifully crafted winter ale.
Between tastings, there were no pretzel necklaces to be found in this crowd of party dresses and suit jackets. Instead we tasted petite portions of palate-inspiring dishes. I was pleased to find a Yuengling & Smoked Gouda soup so that I wasn’t even wasting valuable beer-tasting time as I ate. StrEAT Mobile Bistro knows how to appeal to their audience.
After trying all 13 breweries and speaking with the brewers, I have to say I’m impressed with the Northeastern Ohio beer scene. The brewers here are dedicated to their craft, and the tasters, theirs. To the beekeeper’s daughter-turned-brewer gushing about her sustainable honey-filled creation, cheers. To the soon-to-be-brewer’s daughter networking on behalf of her dad, cheers. To the attendees hoarding samples as the brewers start to pack up, double cheers.
