As the holiday season approaches, the excitement builds, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful countdown to Christmas? The Costco Beer Advent Calendar 2020 offered enthusiasts a unique way to enjoy the festive spirit, one brew at a time. This article will delve into the contents of the calendar, the experience it provides, and why beer lovers eagerly awaited its arrival.
A Tradition Like No Other
Advent calendars have been around for centuries, traditionally filled with treats or small gifts leading up to Christmas. The concept of a beer advent calendar adds an adult twist to this beloved tradition, making it a popular choice for those looking to toast the season in style. Costco, known for its thoughtful offerings, curated a special selection for 2020 that was sure to impress even the most discerning aficionado.
The Appeal of Beer Advent Calendars
Beer advent calendars represent more than just a countdown; they offer a chance to explore unique and seasonal beers from various breweries. Typically containing 24 different beers—one for each day leading up to Christmas—these calendars encourage consumers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new flavors and styles.
A Peek Inside the 2020 Calendar
The Costco Beer Advent Calendar 2020 featured an enticing mix of regional and international breweries. Each beer was carefully selected to provide a diverse tasting experience. While the exact contents can vary by region and store, a representative selection of what was featured in the calendar is as follows:
Domestic Delights
Many of the beers included were sourced from notable American craft breweries, highlighting the diversity and creativity within the brewing community.
- Stone Brewing – Enjoyed for its bold flavors, Stone’s IPA was a great way to start any beer lover’s day.
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Known for its great balance, the Pale Ale from Sierra Nevada is loved by many.
International Flavors
The calendar didn’t shy away from offering international selections, allowing consumers to travel the world through their taste buds.
- Guinness – The famous Irish stout brought its rich, creamy texture to the lineup.
- Paulaner – This German brewery contributed its renowned Hefe-Weißbier for a taste of authentic Bavarian culture.
The Experience of Unboxing Each Day
What makes the Costco Beer Advent Calendar truly special is not just the quality of the beers but the overall experience of unboxing a new surprise each day.
Daily Ritual
For many, the act of opening one door each day becomes a cherished ritual, an opportunity to unwind and indulge after a long day. It encourages consumers to take a moment for themselves amid the holiday hustle.
Pairing Opportunities
Another enjoyable aspect is the chance to pair each beer with holiday treats. For instance, the rich texture of a stout pairs deliciously with chocolate desserts, while a crisp pilsner can complement savory snacks like pretzels or charcuterie boards.
Culinary Creativity with Beer Pairings
Here are some pairing suggestions for popular beers from the calendar:
| Beer | Suggested Pairing |
|---|---|
| Guinness | Chocolate cake or brownies |
| Stone IPA | Spicy chicken wings |
| Paulaner Hefe-Weißbier | Bratwurst or pretzel bites |
| Sierra Nevada Pale Ale | Grilled salmon or citrus salad |
Why Choose the Costco Beer Advent Calendar?
With many beer advent calendars available, what makes Costco’s offering particularly appealing? Several factors contribute to its popularity.
Value for Money
Costco is well-known for providing great value. The price point for their beer advent calendar is often competitive, especially considering that it includes 24 individual craft beers. This makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to experience a variety of styles without breaking the bank.
Quality Selections
The quality of the beers included in the calendar is exceptional. Costco is diligent in selecting beers that not only have great taste but also come from established breweries that prioritize quality and innovation.
Accessibility and Availability
The 2020 Costco Beer Advent Calendar generated significant buzz prior to the holiday season, prompting beer aficionados to keep a close eye on local stock.
Where to Buy
While the calendar is primarily available in Costco stores, it’s essential for consumers to be aware that stock can quickly deplete. Many enthusiasts recommend calling ahead to ensure availability.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
If you’re considering purchasing the calendar for the first time, here are a couple of tips to enhance your experience:
- Plan Ahead: Make sure to get to the store early in the season since they tend to sell out fast.
- Share the Experience: Consider splitting a calendar with friends or family to sample a wider range of beers without consuming them all yourself.
Revisiting the 2020 Selection: What Fans Are Saying
After the inaugural season of the Costco Beer Advent Calendar, reviews and anecdotes from consumers began to flood in. Many praised the diversity and uniqueness of the offerings, while others shared their surprises and favorite discoveries.
Celebrating Local Breweries
One of the highlights for many consumers was the chance to support local breweries. The calendar included several beers from regional producers, reinforcing the local craft beer movement.
A Shared Enjoyment
Social media played a crucial role in the festivity surrounding the calendar. Beer enthusiasts took to platforms like Instagram and Twitter to share their daily unboxing moments, creating a community experience that transcended geographical boundaries.
Creating Lasting Memories
The Advent Calendar provided not just individual enjoyment but a collective experience for groups of friends and families, creating memories that would endure far beyond the season.
Final Thoughts on the Costco Beer Advent Calendar 2020
In conclusion, the Costco Beer Advent Calendar 2020 was more than just a collection of beers; it represented a celebration of craft brewing, community, and holiday cheer. Through each carefully curated selection, consumers were able to embark on a daily adventure, learning about different styles and flavors, and sharing experiences with loved ones.
As we look back at the success of this calendar, it sets the stage for future versions. Whether you are a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, there’s no denying the joy and delight that a well-crafted advent calendar can bring, heightening the anticipation of the holiday season.
As the seasons change and new calendars hit the shelves, one can only wonder what delightful surprises await in the next edition. For those fortunate enough to snag the 2020 calendar, it remains a cherished memory, a reminder of holidays filled with laughter, warmth, and, of course, great beer.
What types of beers were included in the Costco Beer Advent Calendar 2020?
The Costco Beer Advent Calendar 2020 featured a delightful mix of craft beers from a variety of breweries. Shoppers found a total of 24 unique brews that encompassed different styles, including IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal specialties. This selection allowed beer enthusiasts to experience a range of flavors and surprises throughout the advent season.
Additionally, the calendar also included some classic favorites along with new discoveries, appealing to both casual beer drinkers and connoisseurs alike. By showcasing a broad spectrum of breweries, the calendar provided an opportunity for customers to explore different regions and styles of beer, making it an exciting experience for anyone who participated.
Where can I purchase the Costco Beer Advent Calendar?
The Costco Beer Advent Calendar is typically exclusive to Costco warehouses, given its unique nature and popular demand. These calendars are often available for a limited time during the holiday season, starting from late October through early November. It’s advisable to check with your local Costco for availability, as stock can vary by location.
Additionally, for those unable to find one in-store, some Costco locations may have online purchasing options. However, it is crucial to note that the availability of the calendar for online ordering may depend on state laws regarding alcohol sales and shipping restrictions.
What is the cost of the Costco Beer Advent Calendar?
In 2020, the price of the Costco Beer Advent Calendar was around $49.99, making it a reasonably priced gift or treat for beer lovers. Considering the variety of 24 different beers included, many enthusiasts found the cost to be quite justifiable given the quality and selection of craft beers packed into the calendar.
When purchasing, it’s also useful to keep an eye out for any regional differences in pricing or special promotions that some warehouses might offer. Regardless, the experience of unwrapping a new beer daily is one that many found worth the investment, especially during the festive season.
Can I return the Costco Beer Advent Calendar if I don’t like it?
Costco has a generally liberal return policy, which applies to most products, including the Beer Advent Calendar. If you find that the calendar does not meet your expectations, you may consider returning it, especially if it remains unopened. It’s a good practice to keep your receipt and ensure that you are within the return window.
However, if you decide to open and taste some of the beers included, keep in mind that once the product is opened, return policies may vary. Always be sure to check with your local Costco for specific guidelines regarding alcohol return policies, as state laws may also affect this.
Are there non-alcoholic options in the Costco Beer Advent Calendar?
The Costco Beer Advent Calendar is specially curated to showcase alcoholic craft beers, and generally, no non-alcoholic options are included. The intent of the calendar is to celebrate beer culture and offer an experience revolving around the enjoyment of different beer styles. As such, it caters specifically to those who appreciate alcoholic beverages.
For those looking for a non-alcoholic alternative during the holiday season, there are other types of advent calendars on the market that focus on non-alcoholic drinks or snacks. It can be a great idea to explore these options if you prefer to celebrate the countdown to Christmas without alcohol.
How were the beers chosen for the calendar?
The selection process for the beers in the Costco Beer Advent Calendar typically involves collaboration with various breweries to curate an exciting assortment that appeals to a broad audience. The goal is to feature both well-known and emerging breweries, ensuring that every beer offers a unique experience. Often, selections are based on seasonal availability and trends in the craft beer market.
This thoughtful curation allows participants to explore and discover beers they may not have tried before and to enjoy a diverse lineup of flavors. Many enthusiasts appreciated this approach, as it made the calendar not just a countdown to Christmas, but also a mini celebration of craft beer culture in itself.
Is the Costco Beer Advent Calendar suitable for gifting?
Absolutely, the Costco Beer Advent Calendar makes a fantastic gift for beer enthusiasts. The idea of receiving a new beer each day leading up to Christmas sparks excitement and anticipation, making it a thoughtful present for those who enjoy trying different brews. The calendar is not just about the beer; it’s about the experience of discovery during the holiday season.
When gifting the calendar, consider pairing it with a nice set of beer glasses or snacks that complement the various beer styles. This can enhance the overall gift and create an even more enjoyable experience for the recipient, making it a memorable holiday surprise.
What should I do if a beer is damaged or missing from the calendar?
In the event that you find a damaged or missing beer from your Costco Beer Advent Calendar, it is advised to reach out to your local Costco immediately. Many times, Costco will honor their commitment to customer satisfaction and might offer a replacement or compensation depending on the situation. Keeping your receipt will be beneficial when addressing such issues, as it helps in verifying the purchase.
It can also be useful to inspect the calendar as soon as you purchase it, checking for any visible damages before taking it home. Should you notice any issues right away, reporting them promptly can help ensure you get the most out of your advent experience.