Here we are in the run up to Christmas and as usual, the world is in a Ben Hur-like chariot death race to make the holidays the best ever. You will need a beer to not only put you in the spirit of the season but also give you courage to plow head on into your family gathering. At 11% ABV, Troegs The Mad Elf will definitely supply you with courage and the right festive attitude. The cherry and sweet malt in the nose is very much what you get in the first sip with a rising warmth of booze. Soon enough you’ll be gazing at it’s red ruby color and wondering if Santa’s long johns are the same color. There’s more cherry and tartness with a bit-o-honey on the finish. This is a holiday classic like A Christmas Story and Die Hard(That’s right, it’s a Christmas movie)

The Sonic Pairing: This would go great with The Black Crowes version of “Back Door Santa”. A little funky with enough alcohol to get in trouble and end up on the Jolly one’s naughty list. The horn section alone will have you dancing with pink reindeer circling your head.

All the beers featured in the Sonic Beer Blog can be found at Wachusett Wine And Spirits in West Boylston and Worcester.