Holiday Brew from Southern Tier, a region in Upstate New York

In the chilly months of 2013, Southern Tier Brewing, based near Buffalo, made a festive announcement - they were offering two holiday beers to warm the hearts of beer enthusiasts.

The first of these seasonal brews, named 2Xmas, is a collaboration between the brewery and Brauerei Neumarkter Lammsbräu. This unique beer is inspired by a Swedish mulled wine called gloğg, and it's a blend of fruits, spices, and hops. The recipe includes figs, orange peel, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, two hop varieties, and four different malts.

The 2Xmas beer is sold in six-packs and has an alcohol content of 8%. Unlike most holiday beers, it does not contain spices or unusual ingredients, making it a refreshing change for beer lovers.

The second holiday brew by Southern Tier is a bit more traditional, yet far from ordinary. Named Krampus, this Germanic helles lager boasts an increased alcohol content. The beer is inspired by a legendary Eastern European figure, and it uses Chinook and Willamette hops, which lend a piney note to the brew. This other holiday brew by Southern Tier is their most bitter beer, making it a bold choice for those who enjoy a more robust flavour.

Jim Clarke, who left the restaurant industry in September 2013 to take a position as Marketing Manager for Wines of South Africa, has been instrumental in promoting these holiday beers. With over ten years of experience in the New York restaurant scene, working as the Wine Director at Megu and Armani Ristorante, Clarke brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his new role.

Clarke has contributed to various publications, including Sommelier Journal, Beverage Media, Details, Wine Enthusiast, the New York Times, and San Francisco Chronicle. He is an in-demand writer and speaker on wine and beer-related topics, and his hobbies include trying to keep his 1978 Triumph Spitfire on the road.

With the arrival of these two holiday beers, Southern Tier Brewing has once again demonstrated their commitment to innovation and quality, offering beer lovers a festive treat that is both traditional and modern. Whether you prefer the spiced notes of 2Xmas or the bold flavour of Krampus, there's a holiday brew for everyone at Southern Tier.