After a few hoppy beers I thought it best to even out the score and indulge in a “maltastic” brew. I have increasingly become impressed with Samuel Smith’s ales out of England. From what I have experienced they produce some smooth malty ales that are top notch. The beer under scrutiny is their Nut Brown Ale. I did not realize this before, but in England, brown ales are separated into two separate categories. They are; the Southern portion of the country that tends to produce an almost Porter-like rendition and the Northern region, which tends to be lighter and have a higher ABV than their Southern counterparts.
I found this beer to be very enriching. It had a beige head that floated effortlessly on top of a very clear deep amber body. The aroma was inviting and familiar. There were your standard caramel notes, toasted grains, a mild fruitiness from the yeast, toffee highlights, and a distinct nutty mixture. I could not tell if it was a walnut, almond, pecan, peanut, or pistachio, but it was well received. There were also some biscuit notes that gave it a faint spice that helped to bring out the very low, earthy hop smell.
The taste was extremely smooth, warm, rich, hardy, and rustic. A perfect beer for the Fall season or enjoying with a meal of roasted chicken, grilled meats, and BBQ. Having sample various Samuel Smith beers I am starting to pick up on their strain of yeast and finding it to be a very appetizing. The finish is drier than most Brown ales, but the malts leave a pleasant roasted malt/nutty character.
ABV: 5.0%
Grade: A-