The Eel River Brewing Company is located in Fortuna in beautiful Humboldt County.

Distribution King Phil regrettably had to revert to his "Ill Phil" moniker for the final Stone Brewing beer sampling of 2009, but in his place came our good pal Brewmaster Mitch, taking a break from the latest Stone creation, along with stalwart regular Brewmaster Steve, for the final installment of our three-part focus on holiday-themed beers.  



Eel River Brewing Co - Eel River Climax Noel
Belgian Imperial Red Ale; 8.0% ABV
Named for the train which used to haul timber out of the region's lumber camps years ago, Eel River Climax Noel is a highly unusual red Belgian-style ale, loaded with tasty spices which bring a refreshing Christmas Morning sensation, but without the headache of dealing with zany family or being forced to kiss your grandmother. Located in Humboldt County along California's North Coast, Eel River Brewing is also notable for creating certifiably-organic beers, the first in the U.S. to so so, including this masterpiece melding of two different beer styles. Be red, be merry, and ode to joy.

Het Anker Brewery - Gouden Carolus Noel
Belgian Strong Dark Ale; 10.5% ABV
Uncorked with no damage to the facilities or staff, the Gouden Carolus Noel comes from the Het Anker Brewery in Belgium, one of the oldest breweries in Europe (with records going back to the 1369). The high alcohol content is kept in check by at least six spices, including licorice and caraway and the traditionally sweet characteristic of Belgian ales, and according to Mitch Gouden Carolus Noel is also a beer ripe for aging. A beer with holiday spirit, even if you can't speak Flemish.

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The Het Anker Brewery in Mechelen, Belgium.

(Eel River photo by kind courtesy of Pete Liedtke.)