Our Special Ale 2004 (Anchor Christmas Ale)
Anchor Brewing Company

 

Stored in bedroom closet for 12 years and never cold cellared. Heavy layer of sediment on bottom. I thought I could cellar for many many years, but I guess not as this is pretty flavorless and lifeless. There was a slight pfft when the cap popped but poured with zero head or carbonation. The initial smell was spicy and Christmas like, but this one's all around goner. Nonetheless, it must be drunk.

I know it's past its prime but it has to be drank. Christmas in July! As expected for a 12 year old low ABV beer, it looks flat with no such carbonation. The smell is soy sauce and slight vinegar, but has a nice spice note. The taste is nothing like it looks and smells. Wow it still holds the classic Anchor taste though it has smoothed out quite a bit. I mean it's is so light tasting and extremely mellow. There is a slight sour feel to it that reminds me of a Flanders Red. Overall this was very enjoyable even though it has morphed into something totally different from when it was new. There is something mysterious about the spices that make this beer cellar so long. Worth seeking out if any exist.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bottle shared at Alex's Birthday Bash.

A - Looks like all the other Our Special Ale's.

S - Light spice, dark fruits, figs, oak, caramel. A little more spice then previous years, which helps create a bit more complexity. Not quite as smooth with the sweetness though.

T - Similar to the nose. Spices, sweetness, dark fruits. Tastes like a spicy brown ale to me. Finish is sweet brown sugar.

M - Light body, good carbonation, dry finish.

O - I preferred the 2001 version to this beer, but still decent. I like the addition of the spice to this one but would rather have the smoothness of the 2001.