It wasn’t until I tried Smuttynose Old Brown Dog Ale, that I had a better appreciation for brown ales.
In the past, I was never prone to ordering a brown ale. I’d rather hit my safeties – IPAs, lagers, stouts or seasonals. Maybe it’s the fact that I’m not huge on ambers, and brown ales are the most similar in color — which pushes me to loop them together, in turn also making a different brew decision.
However, very recently I tried my fiance’s order of a tall Smuttynose Old Brown Dog Ale, and I was taken back by how much I enjoyed it.
Old Brown Dog is a browish copper color.
It has a light cinnamon scent, that is accompanied by a stronger cinnamon flavor. The stronger flavor is not overpowering, and has a good balance on the palate.
Smuttynose Old Brown Dog is 6.5% ABV.
If you aren’t prone to ordering brown ales, I’d give this one a try. I think you will be happy you did.
According to the Smuttynose site, Old Brown Dog was first brewed in 1988 at the Northampton Brewery. (They are also associated with Portsmouth Brewery.)
Smuttynose Brewing Co. is based out of Portsmouth, NH.
Do you like brown ales? If so, what’s your favorite?
