First created in 1980, the Austrian Schloss Eggenberg Brewery only brew Samichlaus Bier on the 6th of December, St Nicholas' Day.
A brewing process in which hops are added 3 times and after fermentation of up to 2 weeks, Samichlaus is then 'lagered' (essentially, slow secondary fermentation when the beer is stored at low temperature in cold cellars) for the next 10 months before it is bottled. It is a mighty 14% abv lager.
Unlike pilsner lagers, Samichlaus Bier has a dark, ruby-red colour and delivers an amazing malt aroma, likened to baking bread and toffee.
Samichlaus is a true winter beer: it is a hearty, warming and perfect drink, ideal with chocolate desserts or as a relaxing after dinner drink, as you would a glass of port.
Samichlaus lager beer is well suited to being further aged, with older vintages becoming more complex with a creamy warming finish.
Samichlaus 2009 version is available now from BeerHere.co.uk in case of 24 bottles and 3 litre Jeroboams.
You can also enjoy your drink with a Samichlaus beer glass, also available to buy online.