AleAmerican Ale

American Brown Ale

Can be considered a bigger, maltier, hoppier interpretation of Northern English brown ale or a hoppier, less malty Brown Porter , often including the citrus-accented hop presence that is characteristic of American hop varieties. A strongly flavored, hoppy brown beer, originated by American home brewers. Related to American Pale and American Amber Ales, although with more of a caramel and chocolate character, which tends to balance the hop bitterness and finish. Most commercial American Browns are not as aggressive as the original homebrewed versions, and some modern craft brewed examples. IPA-strength brown ales should be entered in the Specialty category.

Alcohol
4.3 - 6.2% ABV
3.4 - 4.9% ABW
IBU
20 - 40
International Bitterness Units
Color
18 - 35 SRM
35 - 69 EBC
Gravity
OG: 1.045 - 1.06
FG: 1.01 - 1.016

Appearance & Mouthfeel

Color
Light to very dark brown color. Clear. Low to moderate off-white to light tan head.
Clarity
Light to very dark brown color. Clear. Low to moderate off-white to light tan head.
Body
Medium to medium-full body. More bitter versions may have a dry, resiny impression. Moderate to moderately high carbonation. Stronger versions may have some alcohol warmth in the finish.

Aroma & Flavor

Malt
Malty, sweet and rich, which often has a chocolate, caramel, nutty and/or toasty quality. Hop aroma is typically low to moderate. Some interpretations of the style may feature a stronger hop aroma, a citrusy American hop character, and/or a fresh dry-hopped aroma (all are optional). Fruity esters are moderate to very low. The dark malt character is more robust than other brown ales, yet stops short of being overly porter-like. The malt and hops are generally balanced. Moderately low to no diacetyl. Medium to high malty flavor (often with caramel, toasty and/or chocolate flavors), with medium to medium-high bitterness. The medium to medium-dry finish provides an aftertaste having both malt and hops. Hop flavor can be light to moderate, and may optionally have a citrusy character. Very low to moderate fruity esters. Moderately low to no diacetyl.

Technical Specs (Plato)

Original Gravity11.2 - 14.7 °P
Final Gravity2.6 - 4.1 °P