Beers for Advent

To celebrate Advent, I'm drinking beer. The idea isn't original, I must confess. I read about the Beer Advent Calendar, realized it would be difficult to get in the U.S., then realized I could make my own by buying some good beer at BevMo. It wasn't cheep -- buying 27 bottles of craft beer, much of it imports. (I'll admit I'm predisposed to Belgian beer, but it's easier to get imports in single-bottle, 12-16oz volume than it is domestic beer). 

So here I am, counting down to Christmas via beer. It's technically the night before Advent begins (Advent Eve? Is that a thing?), but I'd be remiss if my first blogpost didn't involve an actual beer.

I should also note that there are plenty of places online where you can get beer tasting notes. I won't try to replicate or duplicate that functionality here. Instead, I'm providing my impressions of the beer.

Tonight: the Leffe Blonde.

Leffe is one of my go-to beers. I prefer the Brune over the Blonde, but the Blonde is still pretty good.  If you're new to Belgian beers, the Leffe Blonde is probably a good place to start. It's flavorful and a good example of the style, without being overwhelming. Don't get me wrong, I love an overwhelming beer from time-to-time. But if you're new to a style, it's probably best to start with something a bit more approachable. In that case, the Leffe Blonde may be the beer for you. It's still a bit more demanding and flavorful than a session beer -- so don't pick up a 6-pack thinking this beer will get you through Sunday football.

Tomorrow: J.W. Lees Limited Edition Harvest Ale