Hood River, Or - A few unmistakable signs tell us when winter has arrived in
Hood River. The waterfalls in the Gorge start kicking out the jams. The snow
report for the backcountry regains its hold over us. And the Wassail starts
flowing once again. And that means friends and family will surely be close
behind.



"We have brewed Wassail every holiday season since 1988 and it's now as much
a part of the festivities as sharing a roaring fire with our closest family
and friends," reminisced Jamie Emmerson, Full Sail's brewmaster. "Deep
mahogany in color, Wassail is brewed with four different malts and a blend
of imported hops, giving it a malty full body and a pleasantly hoppy finish
that appeals to both hop and malt lovers alike. In other words, a Christmas
miracle!"



Wassail has been awarded a Platinum medal and rated "Superlative" at the
2005 World Beer Championships. Earning 96 points, Wassail scored the
highest ranking in the strong ale category at the 2005 tasting session. It
was described as" Deep mahogany color with a thick tan head. An incredibly
malty nose with brown spice and faint hop notes. Rich and chewy on the
palate. Big and bold without being too heavy or ostentatious. Well done!"
Wassail previously won a Gold in the 2004 competition.



This year's packaging features a vintage postcard of the scenic Hood River
Valley dusted with snow. In the spirit of tradition, a snow-covered
douglas-fir tree looms in the foreground and Mt. Hood rises majestically in
the background. The packaging was designed by Steve Sandstrom of Sandstrom
Design, Inc., Portland, Oregon.



Wassail makes the ideal gift for the beer enthusiasts in your life, and is
the perfect accompaniment to the desserts and flavorful dishes that the
holidays bring. Look for Wassail six packs at your favorite store, or on
draught at your local restaurant or pub. Wassail will be available October
through December.



The independent and employee-owned Full Sail brewery is perched on a bluff
in Hood River, Oregon, overlooking the most epic wind and kite surfing spot
in the world. At this very moment 47 specialists in the liquid refreshment
arts are crafting barley and hops into your next beer. The Full Sail crew
has been fermenting godlike nectar since 1987. Their award winning brews
are now available in fifteen western states. The Full Sail Tasting Room and
Pub is open seven days a week. Swing by for a pint, grab a bite, tour the
brewery, or just soak up the view. www.fullsailbrewing.com


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Jason Alstrom
Co-Founder / BeerAdvocate

3rd Annual Extreme Beer Fest
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