Leopold Bros. Winter Ale
Leopold Bros. Brewery of Ann Arbor

Every time I go into Leopold's, they're doing something different. Under normal circumstances, I'd applaud such efforts. But it seems to me that they are supposedly a lager shop, but they're brewing more and more ales and distilling more and more liquor to meet public demand. More power to them if that's what they want; but they should change their signage and perceived image a bit to match.

The winter ale is a prime example. This brew features the most heavily spiced flavors of any Leopold's beer -- lots of sweet, exotic flavorings. Almost Christmas Ale-like in character. Similar to their pale ale in its estery qualities. All sweet and spice -- but is that everything nice? I'm not sure. Could use some more hops to balance, perhaps? All in all, this is a good brew, and it's one of their more interesting offerings.