Samuel Smith Old Brewery
Samuel Smith Old Brewery is an independent brewery and pub operator based in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, England, established in 1758. It claims to be Yorkshire’s oldest brewery. The brewery brews Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale and a variety of other beers, including organic lager, pale ale, fruit beers, stouts and more.
Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale
Samuel Smith describes Nut Brown Ale as “Brewed with well water (the original well at the Old Brewery, sunk in 1758, is still in use, with the hard well water being drawn from 85 feet underground); best barley malt, yeast and aromatic hops; fermented in ‘stone Yorkshire squares’ to create a relatively dry ale with rich nutty colour and palate of beech nuts, almonds and walnuts.”
Nut Brown Ale has a 5% ABV, about 156 calories in a 12 oz. bottle (we have seen 150 to 183), 0 fat, 13 carbs and 1.4g protein. It is vegan. It has an “Outstanding” rating on Beer Advocate.
Our Review of Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale
I have previously had a few brown ales. Years ago I had Newcastle a few times. While I vaguely remember it, I know that it is not highly regarded in the U.K. where it originates. I have also had Big Sky Brewing Moose Drool, which I remember as decent. My favorite brown ale is Figueroa Mountain Davy Brown Ale, which I have had on tap at their Santa Barbara taproom and in bottles. I always bring home a few six packs when I visit Santa Barbara. However, Davy Brown Ale is 6.7% ABV. While it excellent with a meal, particularly beef or pork, it is too heavy to drink by itself.
In contrast, Nut Brown Ale is only 5% ABV and was surprisingly lighter and drinkable by itself or with a meal. While I didn’t necessarily taste the various nuts listed in the tasting description, it fit the general description of malty English brown ales. I enjoyed this beer a lot and plan on purchasing it again. I recommend it highly.
For other beer recommendations try Figueroa Mountain Davy Brown Ale and Hofbrau Dunkel.
For beer nutritional information of all beers we have reviewed see Beer Nutritional Information.
