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Samichlaus, or 'Santa Claus', is brewed in the Austrian brewery of Castle Eggenberg just once per year, in December. It released with a vintage date 10 months later, around October, and is available for a few winter months - hurry to catch this year's brew. The
label claims "Strongest Lager Beer in the world", and at 14% ABV, that seems fair. This is a beer to savour and sip, and it will cellar well too. Samichalus is not the best strong winter beer around, but it is pretty special and a seasonal favourite.
Castle Eggenberg, Samichlaus Bier 2004 (Austria) 
The beer pours a dark amber colour, with a dense, but quickly dissipating off-white head. It is not the most aromatic of beers, but there is an intense fruity note of cherry and red berries, with some Christmas cake spice and dried fruit. In the mouth it is powerful, dense and smooth, with an immediate rush of sweetness, before a very Scotch whisky-like character emerges. That raisiny sweetness persists through the mid-palate, with more malty, treacley notes pushing through. It is a balanced beer, with heady alcohol showing up in the finish, but also good acidity and a nip of assertive hops. Surprisingly drinkable given its massive alcohol, and very enjoyable. 14.0% ABV, 33cl, ?2.99, Beersofeurope, Onlyfinebeer, Peckhams, .  |  |
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