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5 local winter beers to warm you from the inside out

Cold temperatures normally call for warm beverages, but don't let that deter you from trying some of the local breweries' seasonal offerings. Winter beers tend to be dark, full-bodied styles that rely on malts rather than hops to warm from the inside out. Between the 40-something microbreweries in Dallas-Fort Worth, drinkers will find several stout, porter and spiced beer variations. Here are five to seek out.

Notorious O.A.T. | Four Corners Brewing Co.

This beer is said to be as smooth as the man Biggie Smalls, a.k.a. Notorious B.I.G. It's an oatmeal stout brewed with roasted malts, giving it notes of coffee and chocolate. At 7 percent ABV, it might up your rap game, too (or least you might think so). Find it on draft and in six-packs of cans in January.

Wintervention | Peticolas Brewing Co.

The season's quintessential flavors aren't lost in this strong ale. Drinkers will pick up notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and ginger lingering in the full body and mouth feel. English hops and a sturdy malt backbone give this brew balanced flavor. Find it on draft through February.

Chump Change | Oak Highlands Brewery

Saison is typically a spring or summer beer, but brewers brought this imperial black saison to the dark side with roasted malts and a healthy helping of spices. Saison qualities shine in the taste, which is light and fragrant with a smooth finish despite the fact it pours thick and clocks about 10 percent ABV. Brewers are also aging it in bourbon barrels for limited release toward the end of winter. Grab it on draft through January.

Holiday Bonus | Lakewood Brewing Co.

Lakewood caters to those looking for an easy-drinker with plenty of flavor with its winter seasonal. The beer is effervescent without being overwhelming, and balances maltiness with citrus notes. It's medium-bodied, but bold. Find it on draft and in six-packs of bottles through January.

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Shannon Winter Stout | Shannon Brewing Co.

This 6.5 percent alcohol brew has all the usual stout qualities -- richness, chocolate malty profile, and full body -- but its also sweet thanks to additions of Texas honey and orange peel. Brewers call it aromatic and balanced. The beer will be available in December and January on draft and in 12-ounce cans.