Beer has always held a hallowed place in snow sports. Many a tall tale has been recounted over après pints, not to mention the restorative effect that brews have on those savaged, frozen muscles (see: alcohol). And because we love the thrill of zipping down snowcapped peaks, especially when beers are waiting post-slope, we’ve corralled a handful of seasonal and regular-release beers that speak to the affection for skiing. Reach for these chill-chasing, ski-centric sudsy options for end-of-day libations.
BREWSKI: THE SHED MOUNTAIN ALE
Nothing says ski-related beer like a swill dubbed Mountain Ale. This year-round unfiltered English strong ale from The Shed Brewery in mountain-dotted Vermont falls somewhere between a medium- and a full-bodied ale with pronounced caramel and toffee notes, moderate bitterness, and a roast finish, which is perfect for any pre- or post-run merriment. You don’t disagree.
BREWSKI: BAR HARBOR CADILLAC MOUNTAIN STOUT
Named after the glorious mountain in Bar Harbor, Maine, Cadillac Mountain Stout is a smooth, full-bodied, and flavorful dry Irish stout perfect for sipping after conquering the seven-mile round-trip cross-country skiing trek. Heck, have a few bottles in tow and enjoy them with the white pines and spruce. They like beer too, you know.
BREWSKI: CISCO WINTER SHREDDER
Be like Gnar-Gnar Lumpkin, the shreddingest snowman this side of Nantucket Sound, who likes nothing better than tearing up the white stuff. Or don’t. But keep Mass-based Cisco Brewing’s Winter Shredder on hand while inside the snow-globe-perfect mountainscape. You’ll love the winter seasonal’s mild spice and toastiness, both in flavor and in booze. Mostly booze.
BREWSKI: CLOWN SHOES REINDEER GAMES
Massachusetts’ Clown Shoes Beer whipped up this new limited-release seasonal Bavarian IPA just in time for winter sports libation. Unlike the typical dark, heavy seasonals now out en masse, it’s bold with a strong emphasis on earthy, piney hops bitterness, so it won’t weigh you down.
BREWSKI: ROCK ART RIDGE RUNNER
Save this year-round robust and dark English barley wine from Vermont-based Rock Art Brewery for after whooshing down winding, narrow snowy hills. That is, unless you want to lose your footing, adding to you typical count of ass-bruising, snow-exploding tumbles. At a pungent 7.20 percent ABV, the deep caramel, chocolaty-flavored hooch will make the aches and pains you earned through a hard-charging day running ridges a distant memory.
