Sometimes through no fault of your own you manage to have good timing. That was the case with me when I stopped by Tamarack Brewing Co. recently on the way back from Kalispell.  Just 30 minutes before I stopped for lunch, the fine folks at Tamarack had added this beer to their line up.  A couple of months ago, Tamarack had a batch of Nut Brown Ale on tap that was very good, but didn’t last long.  I doubt this one will either.  It is a typical American Brown Ale style, which is to say that it has a bit more carbonation and hop presence than a British style.

The pumpkin pie-like spice (nutmeg and clove) is immediately noticeable in the aroma and taste, though it definitely compliments the brown ale without overpowering it. Well, truth be told, I guessed the nutmeg right away, but didn’t get the clove. The flavors get a bit more subtle as you get accustomed to the new flavors. Malt with subtle nutmeg flavors give way to a pleasant and slightly bitter hop finish.  This is a very enjoyable, very drinkable fall ale.

Name: Great Pumpkin Brown Ale
Brewery: Tamarack Brewing Co., Lakeside, MT.
Style: Brown ale.
Color: Dark brown, slight tan head.
Packaging: draft.
Stats: 5.4% abv, 30 IBU.
Bought: Tamarack Brewing Co., Lakeside.
Ruling: Three and a half out of Five Hops. Smooth brown ale with subtle pumpkin pie flavors.