Part of smutty's year-round lineup, this pours a gorgeous mahogany color, with a thick tan head that falls quickly. It's a harmonious and well-balanced brew, as initial scents of sweet malt, canned brown bread, toasted raisin bread, brown sugar and molasses abound on the nose and carry through to the smooth, medium-weight mouth. Hints of cola spice, toasted pecan and dark cherry dance on the creamy palate. Medium carbonation helps to keep the mouthfeel from feeling too cloyingly sweet, while a pleasant bittersweet cocoa and black tea astringency unfolds on the finish.

Old Brown Dog has been cited as a classic example of the "American Brown Ale" style of beer. Compared to a typical English Brown Ale, Old Brown Dog is fuller-bodied and more strongly hopped.