Santa’s Little Helper – Imperial Stout
A Dark Holiday Tradition
First brewed in the early 2000s, Santa’s Little Helper quickly became a cherished seasonal release from Port Brewing — a beer crafted to warm even the chilliest winter nights. Big, bold, and unapologetically rich, it’s an imperial stout that embodies everything we love about festive decadence: roasted malt depth, velvety sweetness, and a spirit as generous as the season itself.
Key Features
-
Robust imperial stout built on deeply roasted malts
-
Seasonal, limited annual release
-
Full-bodied, rich, and layered with holiday-friendly flavors
-
Ideal for fireside sipping, gifting, or cellaring
-
A fan-favorite winter tradition from one of California’s most respected breweries
Tasting Notes
Aroma: Cocoa powder, dark roasted coffee, molasses, toasted brown sugar, and a hint of winter spice.
Flavor: Waves of bittersweet chocolate, espresso, caramelized sugar, and dark fruit. Subtle notes of vanilla, smoke, and warming alcohol add complexity.
Mouthfeel: Lush, silky, and warming with a lingering bittersweet cocoa finish.
Overall: A decadent, dessert-worthy imperial stout that balances power with polish.
Awards (Historical Brewery Highlights)
While Santa’s Little Helper has seen multiple vintages, Port Brewing’s dark beer program has earned:
Overall Expression
Santa’s Little Helper is a holiday stout built for celebration — robust, comforting, and overflowing with rich, roasted character. Whether you’re pairing it with cookies by the fire, cracking one with friends, or tucking a bottle away for next year, this is winter brewing at its finest: bold, warm, and unmistakably festive.