It’s the final day of the Advent Beer Calendar! Where did the month go already? Today’s pick comes from Italy, which is fast becoming known for their craft beer scene: Birra Baladin‘s Nöel Baladin.

This 9% alcohol beer is brewed in the style of a strong Belgian ale (according to the beer sites), and while the original site is all Italian, I did find this English description on the importer B. United page:

Le Baladin Noel is brewed in the tradition of an ancient winter warmer. A strong complex beer that will keep you warm during the cold months of winter and accompany any festivities.

Le Baladin Noel’s is an ale with an incredible complexity of aromas: flowery of rose, hint of dried fruits, caramel tasting, banana, cherry, plum, toffee, cocoa, licorice and peppery notes. Excellent with black chocolate, a glass of Nöel is perfect for a special night.

And I have to say, I think that the bottle itself (and label) is something special, too. It almost looks like a Christmas present already, without needing any additional wrapping.

BeerAdvocate grade: A-. RateBeer score: 3.44/5, 80th percentile.