When the temperatures dip and the layers come out, so does a different kind of comfort—sweater beer.

It’s not an official category, but ask any craft beer fan and they’ll tell you: some brews are made for warm hoodies, cold nights, and the kind of slow sipping that fits the season. These aren’t your lawnmower lagers. Sweater beers are rich, flavorful, and designed to pair perfectly with winter weather.

New Trail Brewing’s Ugly Sweater hits that note beautifully. A Hazy Triple IPA with serious body and big hop character, it’s a bold take on what a cold-season beer can be. Packed with juicy layers and the kind of indulgent warmth that sticks with you, this one’s built for fireside pours and festive moods.

Key Takeaways

• Ugly Sweater is a Hazy Triple IPA brewed with wheat, oats, and a bold mix of hops—Mosaic, Citra, and Nelson Sauvin for a rich, juicy flavor profile.
• This limited-release beer is crafted for colder months, offering a high-ABV, full-bodied option that fits perfectly with winter’s slower pace and cozy vibes.
• Ugly Sweater reflects New Trail’s seasonal brewing creativity, delivering a memorable drinking experience designed for fans of big hops and bold flavor.

Meet Ugly Sweater: A Hazy Triple IPA Full of Personality

Brewed with white wheat and oats, Ugly Sweater brings serious body and a soft, full mouthfeel, which is exactly what you want when sweater weather rolls in. At 11.2% ABV, this Hazy Triple IPA is no lightweight. It’s brewed to make a statement.

The hop lineup of Mosaic, Citra, and Nelson Sauvin delivers a powerful mix of dank fruit, citrus zest, and a juicy grape-like character. There’s a touch of malt sweetness in the background, giving it that subtle balance between bold hop bite and smooth finish. Each sip lands with a hazy richness, layered with floral notes and a hint of tropical punch.

Don’t expect this beer to be light or subtle. It’s brewed for flavor-forward drinkers who want something strong, satisfying, and full of personality. And while it doesn’t lean into ginger, cinnamon, or other spiced beer clichés, it still captures that deep, dark warmth we crave for cooler times of the year.

This is a beer meant to be drunk slowly, enjoyed fully, and maybe even write a glowing review about once the glass is empty.

What’s Behind the “Ugly Sweater” Name?

The name Ugly Sweater instantly calls to mind those delightfully over-the-top holiday knits—bright colors, clashing patterns, and enough charm to make you smile even if it’s technically “all wrong.” That’s the energy this beer brings. It’s bold, festive, and totally unafraid to stand out.

Like your favorite holiday sweater, this Hazy Triple IPA is anything but subtle. From the first sip, you get a bit of haze, a whole lot of hop flavor, and a richness that sticks with you. It’s not trying to be clean or minimal but leaning into the season with personality and power.

And honestly, Ugly Sweater is kind of the perfect name. It’s loud, hoppy, and heart-warming, all rolled into one. Don’t worry about matching it with spiced toffee or rice pudding desserts—this beer holds its own. With a high IBU and even higher flavor, it was brewed to be noticed and remembered.

Ugly Sweater in the Taproom: Seasonal Staple or Limited Treat?

Ugly Sweater is a limited-release beer brewed specifically for the colder months. We bring it out each winter as part of the seasonal lineup, and it’s quickly become a fan favorite. Much like pulling your favorite holiday sweater out of storage, Ugly Sweater’s return marks the start of a festive, flavor-packed season.

Its bold hop profile and high ABV make it a natural fit for winter drinking, something to sip and savor rather than rush through. With every bit of juicy haze and citrusy punch, it delivers the kind of experience that stands apart from the clean, crisp styles of summer. And while there’s no need to pair it with toffee or rice pudding (unless you want to), it certainly holds its own at any holiday table.

This isn’t a year-round IPA—it’s brewed for the moment, which is part of its appeal. Fans who’ve had it before know what to expect and start looking for it as soon as the temperatures drop. Miss it this year, and you’ll be counting down until it’s back.

How Sweater Beers Reflect Brewing Creativity

Seasonal beers give us the chance to push boundaries and have fun with flavor. They’re short-lived by design, which gives us room to try bold ideas and go a little bigger than we might with year-round staples. Ugly Sweater is a perfect example of that.

As a Hazy Triple IPA, it lets us showcase some of our favorite brewing elements, like white wheat and oats for body, and a standout hop blend. These hops deliver layers of citrus, grape, and tropical character that evolve with every sip.

Beers like this let us play with proportions and highlight ingredients in a way that feels both familiar and new. That’s what seasonal brewing is about: taking a theme and turning it into something you can taste.

Sweater Weather Vibes at New Trail

There’s always something brewing in the New Trail taproom, and Ugly Sweater is one of those releases that adds a whole new layer of fun when it’s on tap. From its bold flavor to its over-the-top name, it brings an unmistakable energy to our space.

If you’re into beers with serious body, juicy hops, and a bit of seasonal charm, keep an eye out. When Ugly Sweater is available, it’s always worth the trip. Visit our Tasting Room or use our Beer Finder to track down a pour near you.

Conclusion

Ugly Sweater isn’t just a beer. It’s a bold, hazy expression of everything we love about brewing big, flavorful releases. From its layered hop character to its triple IPA strength, it captures a specific kind of moment. The kind that calls for slowing down, warming up, and tasting something memorable.

It may wear a playful name, but Ugly Sweater is a serious reminder of why we brew: to create beers that leave an impression long after the glass is empty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What style of beer is Ugly Sweater?

Ugly Sweater is a Hazy Triple IPA brewed by New Trail Brewing. It features a high ABV and a soft, juicy body thanks to wheat, oats, and a generous hop bill.

What hops are used in Ugly Sweater?

This beer is hopped with Mosaic, Citra, and Nelson Sauvin—known for their tropical, citrusy, and grape-like aroma and flavor profiles.

Is Ugly Sweater a seasonal release?

Yes, Ugly Sweater is a limited release brewed for colder months. It’s typically available during the winter season and not part of our year-round lineup.

Where can I find Ugly Sweater?

When available, Ugly Sweater can be found in our Tasting Room and at select retailers. Use our Beer Finder on the New Trail Brewing website to locate it near you.