BJCP says “A stronger, darker, spiced beer that often has a rich body and warming finish suggesting a good accompaniment for the cold winter season.” Which is to say it’s not a formal style akin to American Pale ale or Saison, it’s more of general characteristics bundled together. For appearance it could be anywhere from Amber to nearly Black. I have seen heads that were white to others that featured a deep chocolate color. The Winter Spiced character is the only unifying feature. ABV can range but most often it’s over 6%.

While officially often associated with Christmas I enjoy these beers well into Winter months as I can find them.

Fullsteam Farm’s Edge First Frost 9.7% abv

Unlike the other examples this beer doesn’t feature other spices and just mentions the use of persimmon in it. It does feature a bit of spice character to it, but I think primarily the Belgian yeast character.

Great Lakes Brewing Co, Christmas Ale 7.5% abv

Cinnamon is apparent, while you get the honey character in the flavor the ginger they use is a background note to me I wouldn’t mind it applified, it reminds me a bit like Charlie Papazian Holiday Cheer from the Complete Joy of Homebrew. 

Raleigh Brewing Holiday Bash Winter Warmer 6.6% abv

Dark and delicious it has hints of mulling spices, but which ones were difficult to pick out.

Trader Joe’s Vintage Ale 9% abv

Each bottle is marked with year, but I didn’t find it this year though Untappd seems to have a listing. It’s been brewed by Unibroue in Canada, but that may have changed. I do like to age them a bit so I enjoyed 2024. Very dark, basicly black rich brown foam. Notes of raisins and dried fruit.