Among the many varieties of beers, Stout stands out as the favourite for beer enthusiasts. To find out the reason behind this we must know what is stout. A stout is a dark, heavy-bodied beer known for its smooth and creamy texture. From flavors ranging from dry to sweet, it’s recognizable from its dark color and thick creamy head. Stout beers are considered winter beers and are in more demand during the winter season. As winter is here, let’s look at the origin, styles, and the reason behind the increased interest in stout beers.

The Origins of Stout: From Porter to Modern Stout

We can trace the history of Stout beer to 18th-century England. By the 18th century, porter was the beverage of choice in England. ‘Stout Porters’ is one version of the Porter that describes the strength of the beer as it was strong, dark, and roasty. Stout beer as a distinctive beer style evolved during the 19th century as brewing techniques advanced. The usage of roasted barley gave its unique dark color and flavor.

In 1817, the invention of the wheel drum kiln helped Guinness to use the ‘black patent malt, which gave stout a unique taste and flavor. This version of stout came to be known as Guinness’s classic dry stout. Today we can distinctively classify both stout and porter beers with their unique characteristics. The stout beer can now be described as a dark, roasty, and creamy ale while porter beer is a malty, brown ale.

Learn more about the history of stouts. 

Different Types of Stout: From Dry to Sweet

When it comes to stout, there are a lot of varieties to choose from. We can generally differentiate Stout as dry or sweet, but there are other qualities that make each version of stout different from the other. Here are some different styles of stout beer.

• Dry Stout

Dry stout can be characterized as a very dark, roasty, bitter, creamy ale. They are also known as Irish stout and the main characteristic of the stout is its medium-high hop bitterness. The head of the stout is smooth, and creamy white because of nitrogen gas taps. Dry stouts typically have an alcohol by volume(ABV) of  4-5%. Guinness Draught is one of the most famous dry stouts.

• Sweet Stout or Milk Stout

This variety of stout is known for the addition of lactose or unfermented sugars to it which adds to the smoothness and sweetness of the beer. This stout has a similar character to a dry stout with a chocolatey roasty feeling, but the sweetness gives the stout a dessert-like character.  The ABV of sweet stouts is 4-6%.

• Oatmeal Stout

The main characteristic of this stout lies in its name itself. The Oatmeal stout is made by adding malted oats which adds a soft creamy mouthfeel and sometimes a nutty flavor. They have a malt aroma and are dark brown or black. The ABV of Oatmeal stouts are 4-7%.

• Imperial Stout

Imperial Stout or Russian Imperial Stout is known as the strongest stout there is. Because of its high alcohol content, it offers a sweet, dark chocolate and coffee flavor. The Imperial Stouts were exported by the English to the Baltic states giving it a new name that is Russian Imperial Stout. The ABV of Imperial Stout is 8-12%.

Find out details about other varieties of stout here. https://londonbeercompetition.com/en/blog/insights-1/a-guide-to-stout-beer-128.htm

How Stouts Are Made: The Brewing Process

The brewing process of stout is very similar to that of other beers. Like ordinary beers, stout too consists of four main ingredients.

1. Malted Barley
2. Water 
3. Hops 
4. Yeast

The first step in making the stout is the selection of the right type of barley. The barley when combined with malted sugars gives the stout its coffee color and rich flavor. The malt and barley are then mashed and boiled. The boiling helps in determining the sweetness of the stout as the hot water extracts fermentable sugar. Hops are introduced to the mash next as it provides bitterness to the stout. It controls the sweetness of the stout. Yeast is then added to this for fermentation. To have fruity and earthy undertones to the taste of stout a specific strain of yeast is added.

Check out the Youtube video of How Irish stouts are made. https://youtu.be/EdmTfoFz6g4?si=5geH0WgAGLpSQ935

Tasting Notes: What Does a Stout Taste Like?

We now know the history, types, and preparation of stout. But the most important part of stout is its unique taste. The most noticeable flavor profile of stout is its roasty nature which is the result of roasted barley and dark malts. It is rich, roasted, and often slightly bitter. The head of a stout will be thick and usually tan to brown. The body will have the color black. The beer when the light goes through should be clear and the nose should have hints of coffee, chocolate, licorice caramel and dark fruit. The mouthfeel of the stout will be thick and full-bodied, creamy, and silky.

Food Pairings: What to Eat with Stout

This flavorful drink can be considered a great companion to a variety of dishes. Let’s look at some of them.

1. Barbecue: The slight bitterness of the stout can be paired with spicy and sweet barbecue to cancel out the flavor.
2. Grilled meats: The smoky smell and flavor of the meat along with the roasty feel of stout go well together.
3. Stews: Meat stews that are slow-cooked go great with the flavor profile of different types of stouts
4. Cakes or Brownies: Chocolate cakes and brownies are some of the best foods that can be combined while drinking stout as they match the sweetness in the food giving a luxurious feel.

Why Stouts Are Popular: A Favorite Among Beer Enthusiasts

The consumption of stout has increased by 11% between 2021 and 2022 globally according to drink market analyst ISWR. The desire of people to drink a premium drink that cannot be replicated by other beverages is one of the reasons for its popularity. People in general started to respect craft beer and its artistry which in turn led to more interest in stouts. The low alcohol level and the bold flavor profiles make it an obvious choice during the winter season and celebratory occasions: a warm fire and a glass of stout – the best way to celebrate your holiday.

Here are some of the known stouts and breweries that contributed to the beer’s popularity

• Guinness: Known for its world famous Irish stout.
• Founders Brewing Co.: Known for their breakfast stout with chocolate and coffee flavors.
• Left hand Brewing’s milk stout nitro: It’s known for the cray and smooth finish.

Want to know more about Seasonal Brews? Click on the link below to know more about Cincinnati’s seasonal brews.

Why You Should Try a Stout

Stouts are one of the few beverages that truly connect with the people who consume and make it. It is art while making and also while consuming. With its great flavor, deep history, and varieties, it offers something for every beer enthusiast.Explore the best stouts from the breweries. Whether it’s for holidays and celebrations or just a lonely dinner, stouts are your perfect drink. Whether you are a connoisseur or a casual drinker, stout won’t disappoint you. ‘So when in doubt, have a stout’

Want to taste and explore the best stout in your region? Cincinnati’s best brewing company, Little Miami Brewing Company offers you varieties of winter beers including stouts.

Feel free to share your thoughts on your favorite stout variety. What are the different types of pairings that could go well with stouts? Comment below.

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