From Wikipedia:

Cabin fever is an idiomatic term, first recorded in 1918, for a claustrophobic reaction that takes place when a person or group is isolated and/or shut in a small space, with nothing to do for an extended period. Cabin fever describes the extreme irritability and restlessness a person may feel in these situations.

The best way that I can think of not to get cabin fever, then, is to have Cabin Fever. Does that make sense? Probably not, at least not until I explain I’m referring to New Holland Cabin Fever Brown Ale, a spicy brown ale that’s perfect for keeping cabin fever away. Not to be confused with Sea Dog Cabin Fever Winter Stock Ale, either.

As I type, it’s doing something very rare here in Georgia: snowing. I don’t have cabin fever, though, and won’t, because it’s nice for a change not to have to go anywhere. Then too, popping a bottle of New Holland Cabin Fever certainly ensures I’m not stuck with nothing to do.

Cabin Fever Brown Ale is New Holland’s winter seasonal. Unlike ,many a winter beer, this is not spiced with holiday flavors, but instead features the grainy spiciness of hearty rye grain. Here is what the brewery says about this one:

Cabin Fever is a roasty brown ale and a hearty, comforting companion for long, mind-bending winters.

IBUs 25

Grains 2 row, wheat, rye, munich, chocolate

Hops Brewers Gold, Nugget

Yeast American Ale

New Holland Cabin Fever Brown Ale has an alcohol content of 6.5% by volume, a bit stronger than your average brown ale. Given the season it’s intended for, though, that makes sense. I paid $8.99 for a six-pack, a fair price these days.

New Holland Cabin Fever Brown Ale pours to a, well, medium brown color with a sweet nutty malt and spicy rye nose and a medium head of foam. Taking a sip, I love the robust cookie malt, hints of molasses, chocolate, the pronounced spicy rye, the subtle hints of candied fruit, and the dry, balanced finish.

All in all, this is a tasty winter treat outside the norm, notable for its lack of holiday spice but abundance of delightful dark malt and grainy rye flavor, with some ale fruitiness tossed in for good measure. It’s a delicious treat for a cold winter evening, and sure to keep you from getting cabin fever. If you’re snowbound like I am……

Update 11/15/2018: New Holland Cabin Fever on tap at Taco Mac. Lovely nutty cookie malts in the nose and palate, chewy chocolate brownies, hint of molasses, balanced finish. $6.58 with a free glass.

And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.

*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.

(B)=Bottled

(D)=Draft

 

 



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