Old Stock Ale by North Coast Brewing Co. is perfect for cold weather
WHO LIKES IT: Donald Jones, wine specialist, Whole Foods Market in Plano 
STYLE AND ORIGIN: old ale (a.k.a. stock ale). "It's a barley-wine style that's very robust," Jones says. "It's a seasonal ale suited for cold weather." 
THE PITCH: "With this beer, the brewery brings a New World approach to an Old World style. It's full-bodied with a hoppy finish; the hops make it a little sweeter than the Old World style." 
Jones has been drinking this ale every year since the 2001 vintage. The alcohol content can vary slightly from year to year; the 2008 vintage is 12.5 percent. He suggests a vertical tasting comparing vintages. "Current vintage will always drink fuller and sweeter than aged vintages. With age, they tend to thin out in body, and the alcohol isn't as up front. It mellows out for a more balanced beer." Cellar this beer for up to five years, he says: "Buy a four-pack to cellar, and buy a four-pack to drink now." 
SERVE IT, PAIR IT: Serve it after dinner, as you would a port. "I've had it with crème brûlée for dessert. It was an accident that worked out very nicely. The sweetness of the dessert cuts through the bitterness of the beer." 
GET SOME: $10.99 per four-pack of 12-ounce bottles at Whole Foods Market; Central Market; some Majestic, Sigel's, Goody Goody and Centennial stores; Market Street; Mr. G's; and S&K liquor stores, Lone Star Beverage and Kegs & Barrels in Plano.