On those chilly winter evenings when the wind is howling, there’s only one place we’d want to be: in a cosy pub. With a selection of beers from lagers to stouts and via ales, drinking beer in winter is an entirely different game to summer, so which hits the spot as the season turns from sun to snow?
While refreshing lagers and crisp pilsners might be the go-to choice for a hot summer day, there’s a range of winter warmers that are perfect for the cold, whether it’s an IPA (ideal for those who prefer lager), bitter (great for anyone who wants a pale ale alternative) or of course, real ales.
At Dorking Brewery, we craft beers that are good all year round. Every season deserves its unique flavour profile, and our brewers carefully select ingredients and techniques to create beers that result in great flavours no matter the temperature outside. Join us as we explore the world of winter beers and discover the perfect brews to enjoy during the colder months.
Why Certain Beers Are Perfect for Winter
As the seasons change, so do our palates. The light, crisp flavours of summer give way to a craving for more decadent, more robust profiles that complement the cosy atmosphere of winter. Certain beers are particularly well-suited to this, especially when they’re fuller-bodied and can be enjoyed at a slightly warmer temperature than an ice-cold lager.
Flavour Profiles
Winter beers often feature flavour profiles that evoke warmth and comfort. Rich malts with notes of caramel, toffee, or bread crust. Roasted flavours, reminiscent of coffee or dark chocolate, add depth and complexity. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove bring a festive touch, while hints of dried fruit or vanilla provide a warming sweetness.
Serving Temperature
While some beers are best enjoyed as cold as possible, many winter beers are served slightly warmer, allowing their complex flavours to unfold fully. For example, real ales, stouts, and porters are often served at cellar temperature (around 55°F or 10 - 12°C), enhancing their aromas and creating a smoother, more satisfying drinking experience.
Food Pairings
Winter beers are also perfect companions for hearty winter meals. Their robust flavours complement rich stews, roasted meats, and flavorful cheeses. The roasted notes in a stout complement the char of a grilled steak, while the caramel sweetness of a brown ale pairs beautifully with a nutty cheese plate.
Whether it's the warming flavours, the ideal serving temperature, or the perfect pairing with winter cuisine, certain beers are crafted to make them extra special during the colder months.
Winter Beer Styles to Explore
The beer world offers an endless array of styles, each with unique characteristics and flavour profiles. That means when the winter season arrives, certain styles stand out as particularly well-suited to the colder months. Here are a few winter beer styles that are worth exploring:
Stouts
Stouts are dark, rich beers known for their roasted flavours, often reminiscent of coffee or dark chocolate. They typically have a creamy texture and a whole body, making them a comforting and satisfying choice for a cold winter night. Variations within the stout family include dry Irish stouts, sweet milk stouts, and robust imperial stouts.
Porters
Porters share similarities with stouts, featuring dark colours and roasted malt flavours. However, porters often have a less intense roasted character and may exhibit chocolate, caramel, or nuts notes. They are typically well-balanced and smooth, making them versatile for winter enjoyment.
Pale Ales
While often associated with warmer months, pale ales can also be a delightful winter choice. Look for stronger pale ales with rich malt profiles and robust hop flavours–this makes the beers feel much richer. Take a moment to enjoy the rich and warming complex flavours.
Bitters
Traditional English bitters, especially "strong bitters" or "winter warmers," are perfectly suited for colder weather. They offer a balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, with caramel, toffee, and dried fruit flavours. Their moderate strength and warming character make them an excellent choice for enjoying next to a cosy fire.
Brown Ales
Brown ales offer a delightful balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. They often exhibit nutty, caramel, or toffee flavours, with a moderate bitterness that keeps them refreshing. English brown ales tend to be maltier and sweeter, while American brown ales often have a more pronounced hop presence.
Spiced/Christmas Beers
As the name suggests, these beers are brewed with spices that evoke the flavours of winter and the feelings of Christmas. Common additions include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice. These spices complement the beer's malt profile, creating a festive and warming beverage perfect for holiday gatherings.
This winter, venture beyond your usual beer choices and explore the world of stouts, porters, pale ales, and other warming styles. You might just discover your new favourite cold-weather companion!
Dorking Brewery's Winter Warmers
At Dorking Brewery, we embrace the flavours of winter with our selection of handcrafted beers, perfect for warming up those chilly nights.
DB One: A Toast to Tradition
DB One, the beer that started it all, is a classic best bitter brewed with 100% English malt. This traditional British style has a balanced malt profile, moderate bitterness, and an easy-drinking nature. Chocolate malt adds a subtle hint of roasted sweetness, while Bramling Cross hops contribute a delicate, earthy, and spicy note, making DB One a perfect companion for cosy winter evenings.
Pilcrow Pale: A Winter-Friendly Pale
While pale ales are often associated with summer refreshment, our Pilcrow Pale offers a well-rounded flavour profile that transitions beautifully into the colder months. The combination of Citra and Chinook hops from the Yakima Valley creates a juicy blend of citrus and tropical fruit flavours, balanced by a subtle piney or resinous note from the Chinook hops. Five different malts lend a rich body and complexity, making Pilcrow Pale a satisfying and flavourful choice for winter.
Whether you're seeking a traditional British bitter, a well-rounded pale ale, or a festive winter warmer, Dorking Brewery has a beer to satisfy your winter cravings. So, gather around the fireplace, share a pint with friends, and savour the season's flavours with our handcrafted brews.
Enjoying Your Winter Beers
Consider these serving tips and food pairings to savour the flavours of your winter beers.
Serving Tips
- Glassware: The shape of your glass can enhance your beer-drinking experience. Stouts and porters often benefit from snifters, which helps concentrate the aromas. Brown and old ales can be enjoyed in a glass tankard.
- Serving Temperature: As mentioned earlier, many winter beers are best served slightly warmer. For real ales, stouts, and porters, aim for cellar temperature (around 10 - 12°C).
Food Pairings
- Stouts: Pair with hearty stews, roasted meats, chocolate desserts, or strong cheeses.
- Porters: Complement with grilled meats, burgers, pizza, or chocolate-based desserts.
- Brown Ales: Enjoy with roasted poultry, pork dishes, nutty cheeses, or bread pudding.
- Old Ales: Pair with aged cheeses, rich stews, or fruitcake.
- Strong Ales/Barleywines: Savour with solid cheeses, dried fruits, nuts, or decadent desserts.
- Spiced/Winter Warmers: Enjoy with gingerbread cookies, roasted nuts, apple pie, or holiday meals.
Creating a Cosy Atmosphere
Everyone knows that a great beer is only the beginning. Winter beers are best enjoyed in a cosy setting that complements their flavours. Meet with friends and family, share stories, and savour your chosen brew's rich aromas and flavours. The ambience of a warm pub or the comfort of your own home on a cold evening can enhance the enjoyment of your winter beer experience.
By paying attention to serving temperatures, glassware, and food pairings, you can elevate your appreciation of winter beers and create a truly special experience.
Final Thoughts
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it's the perfect time to embrace the world of winter beers. From rich stouts and warming porters to complex pale ales and festive spiced brews, winter beer suits every palate.
This winter, explore the diverse flavours and aromas of these comforting beers. Experiment with different styles, discover new favourites and savour the perfect pairings with hearty winter meals.
Visit Dorking Brewery
We invite you to visit Dorking Brewery and experience our passion for crafting exceptional beers. Visit our shop and try our DB One, a classic best bitter, or our Pilcrow Pale, a well-rounded pale ale perfect for the colder season.
Cheers to a cosy winter filled with delicious beers and good company!