Knuckle Down Brown
Marble Brewery

Poured at the brewery's pub into an American pint glass.

Appearance is a deep chesnut shell brown, nearly black with some ruby hints toward the bottom up to light. Steady finger of creme foam dies without lacing the glass.

Nose is rich dark nutty malt that almost gives the whiff of pecan shells. A glint of honey shines out on the nose, too, before giving way to a more cutting, but still gentle, floral hop presence. Great nose.

Taste doesn't disappoint, either, as the flavor is all pronounced nuttiness complemented well by hop bitterness on the back end. The use of different bitter characters from both the roasted end of things and the hops is both balanced and welcome. Really, really satisfying brown ale--plenty of biscuity lip smacking maltiness alongside the bitter notes. Great balance and notable depth on the nuttiness.

Mouthfeel wasn't the least watery, which is my biggest complaint with American browns, but full with mild carbonation. Drinkability is ridiculous as I found myself craving, squirrel style, that kick of (rather than in) the nuts.

One of the best American brown ales I've had the privilege of trying, hands down. Great stuff from a promising new brewery.

Pours with a moderate off-white head. Leaves a nice creamy lacing. Color appears to be a translucent brown with ruby highlights.

The aroma is dominated by roasted malts.

Flavor starts sweet and finishes dry. A bit of a mild crystal sweetness with a nice hop bite that lingers for awhile after swallowing.

Medium bodied beer with somewhat moderate carbonation level. Just the slightest hint of alcohol burn.

This is one easily drinkable american brown ale!