What we’ve come to know well, having mass appeal and drinkability is actually associated with the Brown Ales of Northern England. Newcastle Brown Ale and Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown Ale are two of the most widely-known examples of the style and many US brewers emulate them. Typically low, near 5% ABV, English Style Brown Ales are medium-bodied, low in bitterness, and often have a nutty element with malt notes. The color is typically reddish-brown. If you find yourself in England, you may be able to sample a Southern England Brown Ale, which is lighter in style, sweeter and darker in color than the Northern style.