Sipisode 7 // Winter Ales and Tales - Body By Beer Podcast
Body By Beer Sipisode 7: Winter Wonders: Ales of History and Holiday Cheer. Airing: 12/13/2023
*Sound of beer pouring
Introduction:
Chelsea: "Greetings, fellow beer enthusiasts! It’s a beautiful day on the 'Body By Beer podcast’.
I'm Chelsea Rhoads! And today this episode is brought to you by, Mustard Later. Mustard Later is the Craft Beer Community’s Marketing, Conuslitng and Influencing Hub. When you don’t have time to catch up, Mustard later! :)
Liz: "And I'm Liz Hess! Thank you for joining us today. Today we’ll be exploring winter ales. A bit of history behind them and why they’re so darn important to us during the darkest days of the year. Dark as in the days are short, not that there’s a lack of joy.
Chelsea: "That's right, Liz. Winter ales bring joy to many during the darker days of the year, especially over the holidays.
Liz: Before we get into our main segment today we’re going to start a little bit differently with some beer 101 that we’ll call the Ale Academy. This is for the perspective that there are no dumb questions, and if you’re new to the craft beer scene we hope these questions will help you approach your new love for craft in a fun and engaging way.
Ale Acadamy
Chelsea: We’re going to get back to basics and talking about the four fundamental ingredients of beer. It's amazing how just four things can create such a variety of flavors.
Liz Hess: Absolutely, Chelsea. So, let's start with the biggest component – water. It forms the base of every beer.
Chelsea: Then there's malted barley, or sometimes other grains. This is where the beer gets its sweetness, body, and those all-important fermentable sugars.
Liz: Hops are up next. They add bitterness to balance out the malt's sweetness and also contribute to the aroma and flavor of the beer.
Chelsea: And we can't forget yeast – the magic ingredient! It's what ferments the sugars, producing alcohol and carbonation.
Liz: Speaking of variety, let’s chat about the different styles of beer. We've got lagers, ales, stouts, porters, IPAs... each with its own unique taste and history
Chelsea: Lagers are typically crisp and clean. They’re the refreshing ones in the beer family.
Liz: And then you have ales, which can range from light and fruity to dark and robust. The diversity in ales is just incredible.
Chelsea: Stouts and porters – that’s where you get into the rich, roasted flavors. They’re known for their dark color and depth.
Liz: And we can’t leave out IPAs, famous for their strong hop character. They range from bitter to aromatic and fruity.
Chelsea: Now, let's talk serving temperature. It's crucial, right Liz?
Liz: Oh, definitely. The temperature can change the whole beer experience. Lighter beers like lagers are best served cold, around 35-40°F. It brings out their crispness.
Chelsea: And for ales, stouts, and porters, a slightly warmer temperature, like 45-55°F, is ideal. It allows more of their complex flavors and aromas to shine.
Liz: It’s all about enhancing the drinking experience. The right temperature can make a good beer great!
Chelsea: Now it’s time for BREW NEWS! This is the part of our show where we discuss craft news local to the greater denver area and industry news in general. These topics are picked from some of the top articles over the last week.
Interlude - Brew News Jingle
Brew News Segment
Chelsea: Denver Beer Co. Opens up a location in Littleton
The Denver Beer Company has expanded its footprint with a new establishment in Littleton, Colorado. This latest opening continues the brewery's trend of growth and brings its unique and popular beer offerings to the Littleton community. The Denver Beer Company is known for its wide range of beers and engaging atmosphere, making it a favorite among local beer lovers. This new location is set to be a vibrant addition to Littleton's brewing scene. the establishment represents a significant step in the brewery's expansion, offering a fresh and dynamic beer experience to a new audience. The opening in Littleton underscores Denver Beer Company's commitment to growing its brand and reaching more beer enthusiasts. This development is an exciting addition to Littleton's beer culture, promising to bring the community together around a shared appreciation for quality craft beer.
Opinion: It’s an exciting development for the local beer scene. It demonstrates the company's continued growth and commitment to expanding its reach to beer enthusiasts in different communities. This move not only enriches Littleton's brewing culture but also signifies the vitality and dynamism of the craft beer industry in Colorado. It's a testament to the brewery's success and its ability to connect with a broader audience.
Thoughts on the article? Excitement?
Liz: Saturday is the anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, and in honor of that anniversary Samuel Adams Has Released a Green Tea Pale Ale for its 250th Anniversary:
Samuel Adams has released a new brew called Green Tea Pale Ale to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. This unique beer combines green tea with the traditional elements of a pale ale. Its release is part of the brewery's celebration of the historic event, marking a significant milestone in Boston's and America's history.
Opinion: This is a creative way to celebrate a key historical event. By infusing green tea into a pale ale, the brewery demonstrates innovation in beer crafting, blending traditional brewing techniques with unique flavors. This approach not only honors history but also caters to the evolving tastes of modern beer enthusiasts, showcasing how breweries can successfully merge historical significance with contemporary brewing trends.
Thoughts on the article? Excitement?
Chelsea: Article from vinepair.com; China Isn’t The Answer for U.S Craft Beers Woes, but it could be part of it.
The article on VinePair explores the evolving landscape of the brewing industry in China and the United States. It discusses how Chinese breweries are increasingly looking to the U.S. for inspiration, particularly in the craft beer sector. The piece highlights the growing influence of American brewing styles and techniques in China, indicating a trend where Chinese brewers are embracing more diverse and innovative approaches. This development signifies a shift in the global brewing scene, with China's burgeoning interest in craft beer mirroring the earlier craft beer revolution in the U.S.
Key POINTS:
Chinese breweries are increasingly adopting American brewing styles and techniques, reflecting a growing global interest in craft beer.
This trend showcases China's shift towards embracing a wider range of beer flavors and styles, moving beyond traditional preferences.
The influence of American craft beer is evident in the Chinese market, indicating a cross-cultural exchange in the brewing industry.
The article highlights the potential for further innovation and diversity in China's beer market as it continues to evolve.
This development mirrors the earlier craft beer revolution in the United States, signifying a significant shift in global brewing dynamics.
The article's exploration of the increasing influence of American brewing styles on Chinese breweries is a thought-provoking reflection of the global craft beer movement. It suggests a vibrant, cross-cultural exchange within the industry, where diverse brewing traditions and innovations are shared and adapted. This trend not only enriches the beer offerings in China but also signifies the growing global appeal of craft beer, demonstrating its ability to transcend cultural boundaries and unite enthusiasts worldwide. Such developments bode well for the future of the brewing industry, promising more varied and creative beer experiences for consumers globally.
Thoughts on the happenings? Excitement?
*Q&A Segment Jingle*
3. Q&A Hoptimistic Inquiries Segment
Chelsea: The so-called “dead months” of the service industry are coming up quickly. We stumbled across a question on our social media channels that wanted to know what other business were doing to stay busy during these quiet times. Specifically, what creative events are being scheduling for Jan/Feb that any of us think will help carry breweries through the depths of winter?
Some or most breweries are doing some of the basics like, incorporating weekly trivia/music bingo, mug club events, live music, etc. But they want to know what else have breweries been doing that they’ve seen successful or just as importantly what hasn't worked?
First, lets talk about “WHY it's slow during these months.
People are on vacation
People are broke from the holidays
It's cold AF out
Fitness season kicks in
So we recommend focusing on events that SUPPORT those.
Chelsea: we're addressing a burning question from our social media channels. It's about the so-called “dead months” of the service industry – January and February. What can breweries do during these quieter times to keep things lively?
Liz Hess: That's a great question, Chelsea. These months can be tough for a lot of businesses.
Chelsea: Exactly, Liz. And there are a few reasons why it's slow during these months. People are often on vacation, broke from holiday spending, it's cold as heck outside, and it's the peak of fitness season.
Liz: So, what's the strategy for breweries during this time?
Chelsea: Well, some breweries stick to the basics like weekly trivia, music bingo, mug club events, live music, and so on. But there's a desire to know what more can be done – what’s working and what’s not.
Liz: Interesting. So, what are some creative ideas?
Chelsea: One idea is to cater to those on vacation. Breweries could offer vacation-style merch or to-go stuff that people can take with them. Imagine a promo where customers tag the brewery from different parts of the world. The goal could be to hit all the continents in three years, with a free mug club membership for the first post from a new continent!
Liz: That's fun! Engages the community even when they're not physically at the brewery.
Chelsea: Exactly! And for those who are broke post-holidays, we could host events that don't cost much. Think about events where people bring old toys or clothes for a discount. We could do cooking events or potlucks so people can eat for cheap, or even a popcorn and movie night.
Liz: Love that, very community-focused. And the cold weather?
Chelsea: Ah, this is fun. Breweries could do a cold promo – like if it's 32 degrees outside, your first round of beers could be $3.20. I know Denver Beer Co used to do something similar. They offered cheap beers for people willing to bundle up and sit on the patio.
Liz: That's a great way to embrace the season!
Chelsea: And then there’s fitness season. Breweries could start a month-long exercise program. Maybe offer discounts for purchasing the full month, or host weekly fitness events.
Liz: That's a clever twist, combining fitness with beer.
Chelsea: The key here is consistency. If every Tuesday is movie night, it needs to stay that way from December through March. Consistency makes events exciting and gives people something to look forward to.
Liz: Solid advice, Chelsea.
Sound of clinking glasses
Main Segment
Liz Hess: Hi everyone! Today, we're embracing the holiday spirit with a journey through the enchanting world of Winter Ales, from their rich history to their modern-day magic.
Chelsea: That's right, Liz. These cozy brews aren't just about the taste; they're steeped in tradition, dating back to medieval times. Winter Ales have always been more than just beverages; they're a part of the cultural and social fabric of the holidays.
Liz: Absolutely, Chelsea. Let’s start by diving into the different types of Winter Ales. First, we have the Traditional Winter Warmers from England, known for their malty goodness and higher alcohol content to keep you warm.
Chelsea: And then, there's the American twist with Spiced Winter Ales. These range from subtly spiced to boldly flavored, bringing to mind a kitchen filled with holiday baking.
Liz: Oh, and we can't forget the Christmas or Holiday Ales. These festive treats often feature those classic holiday spices and sometimes even fruits.
Chelsea: For those who like something richer, there are Stouts and Porters with winter themes. They're heavier and richer, often with notes of chocolate or coffee, complemented by seasonal spices.
Liz: Then, there's the unique Belgian-Style Winter Ales. They use Belgian yeast strains, adding spicy and fruity notes to the beer.
Chelsea: With all these variations, it's clear that brewers love to experiment, giving us new and exciting flavors to try each holiday season.
Liz: Speaking of holidays, let's talk about the historical significance of these ales, Chelsea. Winter Ales have been warming hearts since the medieval era, particularly during Christmas and winter solstice celebrations.
Chelsea: That's right, Liz. In medieval Europe, brewing special beers for winter was common. These were often stronger, spiced ales, brewed for warmth and sustenance.
Liz: And let's not forget the tradition of wassailing. People would go door to door with a wassail bowl, offering spiced winter ale, and singing. It was all about community and spreading good cheer.
Chelsea: Regulations played a role too. In England, for instance, they had the Assize of Ale. This set of regulations controlled the quality and price of beer, including those special ales brewed for occasions like Christmas.
Liz: And we can't overlook the monasteries. They were often at the forefront of brewing, crafting special ales for religious celebrations. These ales were likely the early versions of our modern Winter Ales.
Chelsea: Indeed. These ales symbolized celebration, community, and comfort, especially during the darkest part of the year.
Liz: And today's Winter Ales continue this legacy. Their rich flavors and spices are a nod to those traditions of spiced and festive beers from centuries past.
Chelsea: Absolutely, Liz. And now, let's shift to the impact these Winter Ales have on the holiday season today. They're not just drinks; they're part of the whole holiday experience.
Liz: That’s so true, Chelsea. Winter Ales capture the essence of the season. They’re perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire. And let's not forget their economic impact. Many breweries release special Winter Ales as limited editions, which people absolutely love. AND it’s a huge boost for breweries during the holiday season.
Chelsea: It's about enjoying a tasty brew and being part of a community, sharing traditions, and making memories.
*Sound of beer glasses clinking*
Liz: Alright, beer lovers, it's time for some beer facts! Welcome to the Beer Facts' segment where we chat about fun facts about beer!
Beer Facts: Sips of Wisdom Chelsea:
Historical Festive Ingredients: In medieval Europe, it was common for Winter Ales to be brewed with a variety of spices and herbs available at the time, such as bay leaves, ginger, cinnamon, and anise. This was partly due to the scarcity of hops in certain regions and periods. These spiced ales were often associated with good health and were believed to have medicinal properties, a perception that persisted through the Middle Ages.
"Wassailing" and Winter Ales: The tradition of "wassailing," which is singing carols door to door during the Christmas season, is closely linked to Winter Ales. In England, it was customary for the carolers to be offered a special type of spiced ale called "Wassail," which was made with ale, sugar, nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon. This custom was not only a way to spread holiday cheer but also a means of sharing the season’s best brews.
The Strongest Winter Ale: Some Winter Ales push the boundaries in terms of alcohol content. For instance, BrewDog's "Tactical Nuclear Penguin," originally released in 2009, boasted an alcohol volume of 32%, making it one of the strongest beers in the world at the time. This was achieved through an extreme freezing process, where the beer was frozen and thawed multiple times to concentrate its flavors and alcohol.
Winter Ales and Gravity: Winter Ales often have a higher “original gravity” compared to standard ales. Original gravity is a measure of the density of fermentable sugars in a beer wort (the liquid extracted from the mashing process during the brewing of beer) before fermentation. A higher original gravity typically results in a beer with a higher alcohol content and a richer, more robust flavor profile – perfect for those chilly winter evenings.
A Global Twist: While traditional Winter Ales have European roots, many countries have adopted and adapted the style. In Japan, for example, winter beers might include local ingredients such as yuzu, a type of citrus fruit, or incorporate sake brewing techniques. In Belgium, their strong dark ales brewed for winter often include unique yeast strains, creating complex flavor profiles that range from fruity to spicy.
Chelsea: That’s it for the beer facts today. Stay with us for a round of 'Brew Bites' where we pair our favorite beer with, well, our favorite bites."
6. Brews & Bites Segment:
Liz Hess: So, Chelsea, let's switch gears and talk about something that would pair perfectly with a robust Winter Ale - venison stew. This dish was hugely popular in medieval times, and there are several fascinating reasons why.
Chelsea Rhoads: Oh, I'm intrigued, Liz. Tell me more!
Liz: Well, first off, venison was more available than domesticated livestock for many people during the medieval period, especially in Europe. Large forests provided ample hunting grounds, and deer were a common catch.
Chelsea: That makes sense. But wasn't hunting more of a noble pursuit?
Liz: Exactly! Hunting was often a privilege of the nobility. Venison, as a game meat, was associated with the upper class. It was seen as a status symbol and often featured in feasts and banquets in noble houses.
Chelsea: Ah, the food of kings and queens!
Liz: Right. And then there's the practicality of it. Venison stew was particularly popular during the colder months. Stews were common since they could be cooked in a single pot over an open fire. Plus, the rich, hearty nature of venison stew made it ideal for warmth and sustenance during winters.
Chelsea: Sounds like the perfect medieval comfort food.
Liz: Absolutely. And without refrigeration, preserving meat was a challenge. Turning fresh venison into a stew helped preserve it longer, especially when combined with techniques like salting or smoking.
Chelsea: Nutrition-wise, venison is a winner too, right?
Liz: Definitely. It's lean, high in protein, and low in fat. When cooked as a stew with herbs, vegetables, and sometimes wine or ale, it made for a flavorful and nourishing meal, offering a break from the mundane daily diet.
Chelsea: And I guess medieval cuisine was all about complex flavors?
Liz: Yes, it valued dishes that combined multiple ingredients. A stew was a perfect canvas for such culinary creativity, allowing for the blending of various flavors and textures.
Chelsea: So, venison stew's popularity in medieval times comes down to the socio-economic context of hunting, its practicality and nutritional value, and the evolving culinary landscape of the era.
Liz: That's right. Now, imagine pairing a rich venison stew with a spiced Winter Ale...
We’re Pairing this hearty venison stew with a winterale. A winter ale paired with the venison stew creates a harmonious blend of flavors and sensations, appealing to all five senses:
Sight: The deep, dark hue of the winter ale, with its rich, frothy head, beautifully complements the robust, earthy appearance of the venison stew. This visual pairing sets a rustic, inviting tone for the meal.
Smell: The winter ales spicy notes echo the herby aromas in the venison stew, creating a symphony of scents. The hint of Curacao in the beer adds a subtle, sweet citrus fragrance, providing a delightful contrast to the savory, meaty smell of the stew.
Taste: The strong, smooth character of the beer, with its undercurrents of spice and a touch of sweetness from the Curacao, pairs exquisitely with the rich, gamey flavor of venison. The spices in the beer, particularly thyme, complement the herbs used in the stew, enhancing the depth and complexity of flavors in both the stew and the ale.
Touch/Texture: The smoothness of a winter ale, with its mild carbonation, contrasts pleasantly with the hearty, thick texture of the stew. This combination ensures that each sip of beer refreshes the palate, making each bite of stew as enjoyable as the first.
Sound: The sound of the beer being poured, a gentle fizz and clink, pairs with the comforting simmer of the stew. These sounds create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall dining experience and evoking a sense of warmth and satisfaction.
The pairing of venison stew with a winter ale is a delightful match for a winter meal, where the beer's warmth, spice, and strength beautifully complement and contrast the rich, savory flavors of the stew, creating a multi-sensory dining experience that is both comforting and indulgent.
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7. End the Sipisode!
Chelsea: "That’s it for today! Remember, people, life is too short for bad beer. Thank you to all of our listeners for tuning in and supporting the podcast. If you haven’t already, please make sure to subscribe, like, and share on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. And make sure to follow us on all social media channels @bodybybeerpodcast.
Liz: "That’s right. Tune in next week for another sipisode. We’ll continue to explore more fascinating tales from around the world of beer. If you have any suggestions or stories to share, drop us a comment. Thank you for listening! Until next time, pour yourself a cold one and keep those heads hoppy!"
[Ending Theme Music]
Chelsea & Liz: "Cheers!"
*Sound of a tavern bustling with chatter and laughter*
Optional Story Telling:
While there is no specific historical account or story that directly links King Arthur and his court to winter ales, we like to imagine a scenario that might have unfolded in a legendary, medieval setting like Camelot, especially given the prevalence of brewing and the consumption of ales during that era. Here’s a fun, fictional tale inspired by the Arthurian legend and the medieval tradition of brewing ales
The Winter Ale of Camelot
In the heart of winter, as a blanket of snow covered Camelot, the great hall of King Arthur was abuzz with preparations for the Yuletide feast. The knights of the Round Table had returned from their various quests, eager to share in the camaraderie and warmth of the court.
Among the many traditions of Camelot, none was as cherished as the brewing of the Winter Ale, a special brew made only once a year during the festive season. The recipe was a closely guarded secret, known only to Merlin and the monastery’s head brewer, Brother Gildas. The ale was renowned for its rich flavors, infused with herbs from the enchanted forest and honey from the royal apiaries.
As the great feast approached, a friendly rivalry ensued between Sir Lancelot and Sir Gawain, each claiming to be the bravest consumer of the Winter Ale. King Arthur, seeing an opportunity for merriment, declared a challenge.
The knight who could compose the most inspiring toast to Camelot while enjoying the Winter Ale would be honored with a special seat beside the King during the feast.
The night of the feast arrived, and the great hall was filled with laughter, music, and tales of valor. As the Winter Ale flowed, Sir Lancelot rose first, his toast full of bravery and chivalry, extolling the virtues of the knights and the beauty of Queen Guinevere. The court cheered, but all eyes turned to Sir Gawain, known for his wit and eloquence.
Sir Gawain stood, lifting his goblet of Winter Ale high. His toast was a heartfelt tribute to the people of Camelot, from the noble knights to the humblest villagers, and to the spirit of unity and joy that the Winter Ale symbolized. His words resonated with everyone in the hall, drawing cheers and even a tear from the eye of King Arthur.
King Arthur declared Sir Gawain the winner of the challenge, but the true victor was the spirit of camaraderie and celebration that filled Camelot that night. The Winter Ale of Camelot was not just a drink; it was a symbol of the enduring bond shared by all who gathered under the banner of the legendary King Arthur.
And so, the tradition continued, with each Yuletide bringing another batch of the fabled Winter Ale, a reminder of the warmth and joy that can be found even in the coldest of times.
