On the label, Mt Carmel Brewing Company describes their Nut Brown Ale like so:

“Mahogany in color, entering with hints of maple, followed by a roasted hazelnut body, balancing a clean malty finish.”

This is probably the first beer I’ve ever had that had a description on its label that wasn’t just hype, and wasn’t stroking their egos – and is actually pretty accurate a description of the beer inside.

The picture is a pretty good representation of the color, which is kind of surprising – its really that dark. The nose is malty sweetness.

The first sip DOES have a little maple to it, but it doesn’t last. As you drink through the glass, its mostly just a sweet maltiness, and a definite hazelnut presence.

I would have to say that the predominant flavor is the somewhat roasty nut flavor, both in the mouth and in the aftertaste. It has a somewhat thicker mouthfeel that I’m not quite sure I’m in love with. A little less of the malt sweetness might back that off a bit too and do some really nice things for this beer.

My brother in law gave me a bottle when I was in Cincinnati (thanks Gordon!), as he is a big fan. I’m not sure I can say the same about this particular beer, but I can say that I would eagerly try anything else that the boys at Mt Carmel have to offer. I think this young brewery (est. 2005) has a lot of potential, and will keep doing good things. Keep it up guys, and people will keep drinking it. I’ll be keeping my eyes open for more of your beer in the future.

6/10