I nearly despise Southern summers. The heat and humidity just gets to me. Yet I know salvation is on hand when Jubelale shows up from Deschutes Brewery. Several years ago while president of the Brewers Association, I had the good fortune to spend a week in Bend, OR – an eye-opening experience of total immersion into a brewery’s culture. And what a culture! Jubelale could be one of its finest manifestations. Luscious keeps coming to mind. The aroma, spicy and sweet, has all the passion of a good holiday evening. The dark crystal malts create a burgundy color that foretells the nutty, caramel flavor and toasty texture. It just fills your mouth, layer upon layer. I keep thinking of a desert, a cake, but can’t remember the name or place. Then there is the spicy, dry finish that balances out the mouthfeel. Here’s to 19 years of season-heralding Jubelale.