I popped open a bottle of this beer right after chatting on the phone with Sam Adam’s Brewing Manager, Grant Wood. We’d just been talking about beer as music, and in the spirit of that thought, this beer is rock and roll.

It hits with a nutty flavor like a loud, buzzing power chord played on a guitar with the amp cranked to 11. Drums pound out a malty beat that drives the beer along. Then there’s some guy in back with a bassoon or something, playing this weird note and turning the whole thing a bit bitter.

It’s not bad. I mean, it’s not awful. It’s not great, either. It’s probably a question of personal taste, but I much preferred their Black Lager, and I really enjoyed their Old Ale.

Sadly, this Brown Ale is the least favorite of any of their beers I’ve sampled this week.

Fifteen minutes after the beer is done, my tongue’s “ears” are still ringing from this performance.

Comments Off on Samuel Adams Brown Ale