I had no idea what style of beer this was when I opened it, beyond the fact that it was an ale – while the other beers of theirs I’ve seen have been lagers. When I poured it, it was browner color than I expected, and oh boy is it a brown ale.

I like a good, drinkable brown, and if this was available here in Michigan, I would be drinking it a lot more often.

There is a great nuttiness in this beer, and it plays wonderfully with the bittering of the hops, and the lively carbonation. After a few sips, once my palate has grown a little more accustomed to it, the malt flavor pops through with just the right hint of sweetness.

I suppose I could do for a little less bitterness, but all in all, this is a really solid beer. Its not Cabin Fever or anything (one of my favorite browns), but its more in that vein than say, Newcastle (another well-loved beer). All that said, I would gladly drink this when presented with the option.

Good job, Moerlein, you’ve made me a fan. Now start distributing in Michigan.

7/10