Adapted from BJCP Beer Styles Ver. 8/9/99

10. BROWN ALE

10D. American Brown Ale

Aroma: Hop aroma, often citrusy, is mild to strong. Esters and dark malt aspects are mild to moderate.

Appearance: Dark amber to dark brown color.

Flavor: Hop bitterness and flavor dominate the malty richness that is a characteristic of brown ales. Slightly drier than English versions, with assertive hop presence (bitterness, flavor, and aroma).Although malt flavor plays a supporting role, some toasty malt character(or even restrained roastiness) should be evident.

Mouthfeel: Medium body, with a dry, resiny impression contributed by the high hop bitterness.

Overall Impression: A bigger, hoppier, dryer version of brown ale, typically including the citrus-accented hop presence that is characteristic of American varieties.

History/Comments: A strongly flavored, hoppy brown beer, originated by American home brewers.

Ingredients: Well-modified pale malt, either American or Continental, plus crystal and darker malts should complete the malt bill. American hops should be used in generous quantity. Moderate to high carbonate water would appropriately balance the dark malt acidity.

Vital Statistics: OG: 1.040-1.060
IBUs: 25-60 FG: 1.010-1.017
SRM: 15-22 ABV: 4-6.0%

Commercial Examples: Pete's Wicked Ale, Brooklyn Brown Ale, Hart's Pacific Crest Ale, Smuttynose Old Brown Dog, Il Vicino Tenderfoot Brown, Shipyard Moose Brown.

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