Ski. Snowboard. Snowshoe. Festeroo.

Some people put away their beer glasses about the same time they put away their swim suit, their flip-flops and their sunscreen. This is a mistake. Great beer happens all year round.

For proof, just pick up Hop Valley’s Festeroo Winter Ale. Brewed in the Winter Warmer tradition, Festeroo is an English-style old ale brewed with a slightly spicy combination of malts and hops. Originally, “old” ales were dark, heavily malted beers that were stored and aged by the brewery before being sold to pubs and the public. The bit of tart flavor that arises from secondary fermentation during the aging process became synonymous with the style.

Fortunately you don’t have to wait to enjoy Festeroo. Whether on tap or from the bottle, this Winter Ale is best served in a snifter or tulip glass to showcase the slim layer of foam that features plenty of appealing lacing. With a malt-forward taste, hints of biscuit and caramel, a strong hop finish and a touch of spiciness, Festeroo warms the belly and the soul during those short days and long winter nights.

So go ahead and put away the swim suit and the flip-flops, but not the beer glasses. Festeroo is calling.