As the holiday season takes over Niagara, local craft breweries and distilleries are offering an array of festive beverages that capture the spirit of the region. From spiced ales to unique blends like Icewine Beer and Chestnut Ale, these seasonal drinks are the perfect way to toast to the season. Whether you're sipping on a warming Sweater Weather Spice Ale at Taps Brewhouse or enjoying the rich flavors of Pumpkin 3.14, Niagara’s craft beverage scene offers something to delight every palate​. 

Let's explore some of the must-try drinks that will add a local twist to your holiday celebrations.

Here are the top ones that made the cut- in no particular order (of course)!

'Icewine Beer' by Niagara Brewing Company

Niagara Brewing Company's Icewine Beer is a unique seasonal brew that combines the iconic local flavor of Niagara’s Icewine with the crisp profile of their Niagara Premium Lager. This limited-edition beer is crafted with a blend of the region's famous sweet and fruity Icewine, creating a smooth, slightly sweet beer with subtle fruity undertones and a refreshing finish. It’s released just in time for the holidays, offering a perfect drink to enjoy during festive celebrations. The combination of the rich sweetness of Icewine with the beer's lager base creates an unexpected but delightful fusion of two Niagara specialties.

Grab some here

'Sweater Weather Ale' by Taps Brewhouse

Taps Brewhouse's "Sweater Weather Ale" is a delightful seasonal brew that perfectly captures the essence of cozy fall and winter gatherings. This sessionable winter ale is rich with warming spices, including ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and clove, offering a comforting, aromatic experience. The beer also features smooth caramel and toffee notes, making it both sweet and spicy, ideal for warming up during chilly weather​.

If you're a fan of winter ales with a comforting blend of spice and sweetness, this is a great choice to sip on while enjoying the festive season.

Grab some here



'Roasted Chestnut Ale' by Oast House Brewers

The Oast House Brewers Chestnut Ale, officially known as R.R. #8 Roasted Chestnut Brown Ale, is a rich, malt-forward English Southern Brown Ale that captures the cozy essence of the holidays. It features distinct flavors of burnt caramel, toffee, dark toast, and a roasted nut character, thanks to the locally grown chestnuts that are roasted in-house at the brewery. This unique ale pairs its malt body with the earthy depth of chestnuts, offering a warming, slightly sweet finish perfect for the colder months​.

It's part of Oast House's "Rural Route" series, showcasing the brewery's connection to local agriculture, such as sourcing chestnuts from nearby Grimo Nut Nursery in Niagara-on-the-Lake​.

Grab some here



'Nut Brown Ale' by Silversmith Brewing

Silversmith Brewing's Nut Brown Ale is a classic example of the British-style Nut Brown Ale, offering a smooth and rich drinking experience. This ale is known for its deep amber-brown color, which complements the malt-forward profile. The taste is marked by roasted and toasted malts, creating a warm, nutty flavor. There's a balanced sweetness that enhances its toasty notes, with hints of caramel and toffee. The beer's relatively low hop bitterness allows the malt flavors to shine, making it a perfect match for cooler weather. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a comforting, easy-drinking ale during the fall and winter months.



Grab yours here

'Tart & Toasty' by Bench Brewing

Bench Brewing's Tart & Toasty is a delightful seasonal beer that captures the cozy warmth of the holidays. This tart sour ale features a unique blend of roasted malts that deliver a smooth, toasty flavor, complemented by hints of sweet, fruity acidity. The beer strikes a balanced harmony, offering both a refreshing tartness and a comforting warmth, making it a perfect choice for chilly winter evenings. The addition of subtle spices enhances the festive character, making it a holiday favorite for those who enjoy a beer with a little extra complexity.

Grab some here



'Ferrero Rocher Roller' by Counterpart Brewing

Counterpart Brewing’s Ferrero Rocher Roller is a creative oatmeal stout with a sweet, indulgent twist, capturing the essence of the popular chocolate treat. Brewed with lactose for smoothness, it’s conditioned with cacao nibs, hazelnut, wafer, and vanilla, delivering a rich, dessert-like experience. At 6% ABV, this stout offers a roasty, silky body complemented by the familiar nutty and chocolate flavors reminiscent of Ferrero Rocher chocolates. It’s a unique winter brew that's perfect for those who love decadent flavors in their craft beers.

Pick up some here

Making your holiday festivities count in Niagara

Whether you fancy one of the above delicious craft beverages, or you prefer a cocktail instead, there is always something involving festive & cuisine in Niagara (we're kind of known for it). There are plenty of restaurants that prepare delicate holiday inspired drinks, as well are various tastings at each establishment. Not to mention numerous tour companies who will help you beverage hop (so you don't drink & drive)!

Have fun, and remember to stay safe this holiday season!