Three Nations Brewing - Wintry Mix Review
Seasonal beers are what get me up in the morning. Well, maybe not that far, but they do break up the monotony and bring us into new seasons and holidays like throwing on that favorite sweater after summer and turkeys and hams on plastic table clothes.
But, I must admit, I’m always cautious of seasonal beers. Some have reputations so deep you can see the roots of craft beer, but others come along and give us pause. Is it worth my money, is often the question, when the tried-and-true is right there next to it?
Well, that’s where we come in as reviewers. We take the risks so you can proceed with confidence, or so we hope. Three Nations is a great brewer out of Carrollton, Texas, near Dallas, and they have received many awards and admiration over the years, so we’re excited to try their Wintry Mix winter ale that they say has toasted malts balanced by American and European hops and a season-worthy 7.0% ABV and 32 IBUs.
But we’re strict when it comes to our seasonal (and especially fall and winter) beers. We demand a lot, so let’s get after it and see if Wintry Mix warms us.
First Impressions:
On the Eyes--Golden-copper in color, topped with an off-white head, and with a slight haze—almost an unfiltered look, which we love.
On the Nose--Surprisingly hoppy with gentle tropical notes and a breadiness at the back. Interesting.
On the Palate--The fruitiness from the aroma transfers nicely to the flavor offering citrus and tropical notes that remind me a bit of Centennial hops, which are a Brew house favorite. Wintry Mix is medium-bodied and smooth on a mildly dry finish with only a bit of yeast character (which Three Nations said was present) lingering. The breadiness from the aroma is overpowered by the hoppiness, but the beer is well balanced and the ABV is warming.
Final Thoughts:
Wintry Mix is a good beer—a bit like a modern cold IPA with some yeast character—but it’s not what I would think of when I think of a hearty, rich, and malty winter warmer. It has great hop aroma and flavor, it’s pleasant to drink, is well balanced and has some uniqueness. If that’s what you’re looking for this winter, then this is your beer. If you’re looking for something more traditional, it’s likely not what you want.
The high ABV is warming, that much is true, and I’m betting if you go to one of Three Nations’ 2 brewpubs you’ll find that warm as well.
Cheers!
Mr. Brew
If you’re looking for another winter warmer check out Saint Arnold’s Christmas Ale or Breckenridge Brewery’s Christmas Ale.
If you’re curious about Centennial hops, definitely try Founders’ Centennial IPA. It is consumed in the Brew house on a monthly basis.