So the realization that the holidays are here again has seeped into your consciousness like slush through the tops of your shoes, and you decide you need a drink. More specifically, you need to drink without looking like you’re enjoying it too much, because you’re not doing the Christmas spirit thing this year. Maybe you’re feeling the drain on your wallet, or the strain of coworker vacations; maybe you resent kids, and the Victorian-era impulse that made Christmas all about THEM. Maybe you used to have nightmares about Santa Claus. I mean, you were only five but you still knew that a strange man coming to your house at night bearing gift-wrapped rewards for your “good behavior” sounded too good to be true.

Whatever the reason, Bah Humbug Christmas Ale is a decent beer for the job. While the label clearly defines your outward stance toward any yuletide cheer, this malty, reddish-brown ale has hints of holiday spices–and unlike other seasonal ales whose spiciness can be overbearing, the taste is subtle and quite drinkable. One bottle goes down easily and leaves you with just a little bit of a toasty glow–but no one has to know.

Bah Humbug Christmas Ale from Wychwood Brewery ($5.50)
Available at Dual Specialty Store 91 First Ave. at 6th Street.