Ah, Schell's Snowstorm. This is a winter seasonal that many craft beer loving Minnesotans look forward to from the moment they finish their last bottle of the previous year's batch (including myself). One of the main reasons for this longing anticipation is the fact that Schell's uses a completely unique recipe for this brew each year.
I don't know who was responsible for this brilliant idea, but it has been greatly successful for the brewery. It seems to be the perfect way to test market some special beers. In fact, 2 of Schell's year-round offerings were once Snowstorm recipes: Stout and Firebrick. Their popularity sealed the deal.
Snowstorm 2010 is a Weizen Doppelbock. It weighs in with a respectable 7% ABV and is brewed with Munich, Wheat, Xtra Special and Midnight Wheat malts, according to the Schell's website.
I pour from the 12 ounce bottle into my large Weizen glass. A 4-finger light tan head is generated with ease. The coarse foam gradually settles to a rocky-looking 1/4" thick layer. The body is dark amber in color and slightly cloudy.
The pleasing smell of bananas and cloves immediately wafts up from the glass. There is also a touch of caramel, some candied fruit, and a very slight herbal hop aroma.
Mmmmm. I like the flavors going on here. First I notice some sweet stone fruit, like an apricot or a peach. Then, there's a little cocoa powder followed by something similar to darkly toasted marshmallows. A bit of spice comes in at the finish.
The medium velvety viscosity coats my mouth with each drink. It's very easy to swallow and has a small warming effect. Some faint lacing is present on the sides of my glass.
Wow. This is a spectacular beer. It is quite drinkable with its light, easy-going flavors, but remains wonderfully complex. The 7% alcohol is not all that noticeable and could make this one dangerous. I would definitely enjoy drinking this brew in any season. Hear that Schell's? You think you could do that for us?
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