Full Moon Winter Ale

Grade: C+

The Beer: Blue Moon’s Full Moon Winter Ale is a seasonal Belgian pale ale containing 5.6 percent alcohol.

The Good: A very smooth initial taste. The moderate brown-sugar taste is present throughout and is a fair complement to the beer. It isn’t bad if you only have one.

The Bad: The initial taste doesn’t linger for long, resulting in a beer that changes from tasty to boring with every sip. The cost is also a bit steep for a beer of this quality.

The Cost: $8.49 for a six-pack

The Recommendation: If you are a regular Blue Moon drinker, Full Moon will provide a nice holiday alternative. However, Full Moon will not change anyone into a believer.

Goose Island Christmas Ale 2007

Grade: C-

The Beer: Goose Island’s Christmas Ale is a holiday-style brown ale with a 5.6 percent alcohol content.

The Good: The opportunity for the 2008 brew. The 2007 brew is not as good as previous years.

The Bad: The bitter hops taste is a bit too overpowering and the aftertaste is very dry. Also, the beer is supposed to have a hint of chocolate taste, but the roasted malt ends up overshadowing it and tastes burnt. In addition, a slight alcohol taste is present. Goose Island’s Harvest Ale is a much better seasonal blend.

The Cost: $7.99 a six-pack.

The Recommendation: Only go for Goose Island’s Christmas Ale if you’re a fan of bitter ales. I would instead recommend Newcastle Brown Ale, which has the added perk of being available year-round.

Next Week: Winner Full Moon Winter Ale versus Samuel Adams Winter Lager.