Christmas Ale

2012 Anchor Christmas Ale. New tree. New recipe. Same traditions.

Each year since 1975, Anchor Brewing creates a distinctive Christmas Ale, available from early November to mid-January. A rich, dark spiced ale, our secret recipe is different every year—as is the tree on the label—but the intent remains the same: joy and celebration of the newness of life.

Since ancient times, trees have symbolized the winter solstice when the earth, with its seasons, appears born anew. Our tree for 2012 is the Norfolk Island pine. Captain Cook discovered this South Seas isle and its native tree in 1774. These tropical-looking conifers, which thrive in sandy soil and coastal climes, were first planted in California in the 1850s. The Norfolk Island pine on this year’s label, hand drawn from life, resides in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.

Each year our Christmas Ale gets a unique label and a unique recipe. Although our recipes must remain a secret, many save a few bottles from year to year. Properly refrigerated, the beer remains intriguing and drinkable for years. Different nuances emerge as the flavor mellows slightly, much like the memories of great holiday seasons past. Celebrate the holidays with Anchor Christmas Ale, an Anchor tradition since 1975.

Video: About Anchor Christmas Ale

View All 38 Years

of Anchor Christmas Ale Labels

• 
  Video: Old Foghorn
• 
  Flying Cloud San Francisco Stout™
• 
  Video: Anchor Label Artist Jim Stitt
• 
  Video: Mysteries of Steam
• 
  Video: A Bit About Us...
• 
  Video: Building Anchor Plaza
• 
  Video: Mark Celebrates 40 Years!
• 
  Visit our Brewery. Reserve a Tour!
• 
  Read Recent Anchor Press
• 
  A Time-Honored Brewing Tradition

Today at Anchor