Beer O'Clock: Christmas Beer

It's not often that holidays are centered around beer, and frankly, that's a shame.

The lovely folks in Denmark, however, have not only created such a holiday but they have moved it a couple of times so that it doesn't interfere with the work week. Known to the Danish as "J-Day" and celebrated on the first Friday in November, Julebryg (trans: Christmas Brew) is the fourth largest beer sold in this Nordic country, each year.

Which says a lot, considering that it's only available for six to 10 weeks out of the year.

In North America, Julebryg is tapped at precisely 5:59 pm on December 1, presumably because we tend to signify this day with the beginning of the Christmas season.

I was lucky enough to be at the only place in Ottawa that was tapping Tuborg Julebryg for this festive occasion.

For the first week in December, the only place that is pouring this exclusive dark lager is Bier Markt, on Sparks Street. Here, you can find servers donning bright blue Santa suits and caps. Banners celebrate J-Day and the Christmas spirit can truly be felt. As a special treat, Denmark's embassador to Canada, Niels Boel Abrahamsen, poured the first glasses at 5:59 on the dot.

So, just how is this festive lager?

Julebryg (5.6% ABV)

Tuborg (Carlesburg Group)
Fredericia, Denmark

Appearance: caramel-amber with red highlights, and a creamy, beige head that clings to the sides of the glass as it settles right down to a thin, loose lace before disappearing.

Nose: the aromas aren't eager to reveal themselves right away but slowly expose hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Palate: I was promised anise flavours by Carlsberg Territory Manager Petter Wramhed, but my first mouthful, which I swirled over my tongue and around my teeth, made him a liar—for about five seconds. It's not overwhelming anise but it is a pleasant sensation every time you inhale after swallowing your brew. It beautifully complements the clove, nutmeg, and nutty finish.

Overall impression: there's a reason why this seasonal lager sells so well. It's immensely drinkable and has you yearning for Christmas baking and logs crackling in the fireplace. It warms the heart and makes you feel peace on Earth, good will to all.

Beer O'Clock rating: 3.5

This is a wonderful Christmas brew... I mean, Julebryg. It has everything that says glædelig jul—Merry Christmas!

If you want to experience this limited brew, head over to Bier Markt. Check out the lights on Parliament Hill and the outdoor hockey rink, and then warm yourself with a delicious meal and a Tuborg Julebryg.

Tell them I sent you.

On December 8, you can also find this brew at Central BierHaus, in Kanata Centrum. But you have to wait until Friday.

Cheers! Skål!