American Brown Ale

A malty but hoppy beer frequently with chocolate and caramel flavors. The hop flavor and aroma complement and enhance the malt rather than clashing with it.

Moderate American hop aroma with citrus or pine notes. Moderate chocolate and caramel malt aroma. Low to moderate fruity esters. Hop and malt aromas complement each other. Rich and appealing.

Dark amber to brown, 18-35 SRM. Clear. Off-white to tan head with moderate retention.

Moderate chocolate and caramel malt flavor. Moderate American hop bitterness and citrus or pine flavor. Low fruity esters. Moderately dry finish. Malt and hops complement each other.

Medium body with moderate to high carbonation. Smooth with no astringency. Some creaminess from chocolate malt.

An American craft interpretation of the English brown ale tradition, developed in the 1980s-90s with more American hop character. Brooklyn Brown Ale and Big Sky Moose Drool were early influential examples. Uses American hops and darker malts to create a more robust version than the English original.

What is American Brown Ale beer?

American Brown Ale (BJCP 19C) — a malty, chocolatey American ale with hop complexity. Style guide and specs.

What is the ABV of American Brown Ale?

American Brown Ale has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.3-6.2%.

How bitter is American Brown Ale beer?

American Brown Ale measures 20-30 IBU (International Bitterness Units).

What are some examples of American Brown Ale beers?

Big Sky Moose Drool, Brooklyn Brown Ale, Bell's Best Brown, Smuttynose Old Brown Dog