Christmas is also the time to drink porter. Porter is one of the few beers that actually gets better and better as it ages. Not as black as stout, it typically has a 'chocolatey' taste. The better porters are well-hopped, adding a bright note to the dark brew.
Haystack Black will remain the best ever, even if it's unavailable now.
Several porters are good though.
MacArnahan's Black Watch -Cream Porter- which is Haystack's replacement is good.
Anchor Porter isn't bad. Some swear by it.
One of my favorites, though not stocked in KY anymore, is Geary's London Porter. Brewed in Maine. A beautiful drink. Look for this one.
Definitely sitting-by-the-fire drinking!
Cheers, Noel
no method, no guru, no teacher