Get the inside scoop on perplexing chestnut genetics.

Although color is only the icing on the cake, chestnut fans rave there’s nothing better than a dark liver chestnut flashing a flaxen mane and tail. The color’s relative rarity—compared to sorrel—makes it stand out in a crowd, and the deep, rich tones contrast sharply with white Paint markings, adding to its appeal. So what makes a chestnut a chestnut, inside and out?