Winter Ale - is it out yet?

[The Oracle]

When do winter ales typically get released?

[The Oracle]

I've been looking for a winter ale/oatmeal stout for a spicy brown mustard recipe I want to make for Christmas. I was directed Firestone's Velvet Merlin as being a good contender, but it's not in any of the liquor stores that normally carry it yet (Los Angeles area). :(

If anyone has an alternative suggestion for an oatmeal stout, I'm all ears!

[Jim Dorsch]

Samuel Smith is easy to find. Anderson Valley Barney Flats.

[chuckl]

check out Stockyard Stout at Trader Joe's. It's surprisingly good and should work fine in your recipe.

[rob133]

Started seeing most of the usual winter seasonal's hit the shelves over the last few weeks. I guess the answer to our question depends on where you are in the country and which seasonal's in particular you are looking for :)

[Jim Dorsch]

I have noticed the winter seasonals appearing a bit later this year and last. They used to show up a week or two into October, and now they're coming out more in November. But this varies, of course, and your point is well taken.