It’s winter, which means it’s time for stronger, Belgian-style ales. You don’t have to take an intercontinental trip for this one, though, because it’s brewed in Rockville, Maryland. For the month of December DC Beer’s Patreon members get 10% off Silver Branch’s Gnome for the Holidays seasonal saison at The Brew Shop in Arlington.
“Gnome for the Holidays is a traditional winter Saison brewed with Dupont yeast and Warminster Pale Malt. You’ll get that classic balanced Saison profile with spicy clove, black pepper, and a clean, super dry finish — plus a subtle hint of orange zest,” Silver Branch tells us.
At 7.6% alcohol by volume it’s the strongest beer we’ve chosen thus far, but a 12 ounce can on a weeknight will do you much better than the holiday beers from Belgian breweries, which frequently tip the scales at over 9% ABV. Fellow holiday saison Bon Voeux from Brasserie Dupont clocks in at 9.5%, for example.
Gnome shares a yeast strain with Brasserie Dupont. Savvy drinkers know this means two things: intense carbonation and a bone dry finish. Subtle additions of orange zest and holiday baking spices like nutmeg keep the beer in balance and seasonally appropriate. Pair it with your cheese board or ginger molasses cookies and you’re in business!
From all of us at DC Beer and Beth, Julie, and The Brew Shop crew, happy holidays! We hope you’re gnome for the holidays as well.
