I can’t believe I hadn’t posted a review of the 2006 Jubelale yet… I’ve had it written down in my notebook since around Thanksgiving. I guess that gives an idea of how far behind I am in posting them here. Of course, that makes for good blog fodder. :)

Anyway, each year’s Jubel is a winner, and the current one is no exception. And, of course, every year they commission an artist to create a new label. This year:

Every year we seek out a new artist to capture the festive cheer of Jubelale on canvas. Katherine Taylor of Bend, Oregon is this year’s artist, painting a warm depiction of the Deschutes Brewery Public House on a cold Central Oregon winter’s night. We love what she created and hope it entices you to cozy up by the fire with your friends and a tall pint of Jubelale. More of her vibrant oil-paintings can be viewed at www.katherine-taylor.com.

So, on to my review notes.

Appearance: Nice tan head. Deep garnet amber in color, with red highlights when held up to the light.

Smell: Burnt sugar, caramel, alcohol. Dark fruits (raisins, plums), spicy.

Taste: Right up front is the alcohol strength (6.7% by volume), warming and slightly astringent. Spicy hops. Slightly fruity. Rich and dark.

Mouthfeel: Full-bodied; puckering in the alcohol with a slight dryness.

Overall, it’s definitely another winner for me. On BeerAdvocate, it scores 88 out of 100, with 100% approval. On RateBeer, it scores 3.65 out of 5 and lands in the 91st percentile.

It’s still on the shelves; get some before it’s gone!