Guinness Draught - The Beer Thrillers

Beer Review: Guinness Draught (Guinness)

B. Kline — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 06:04:42 +0000

Having a Guinness Draught with Ming and Don on St. Patrick’s Day

A Timeless Classic Revisited: Guinness Draught

In the ever-evolving landscape of craft beers, with its kaleidoscope of flavors, styles, and innovations, there remains one stalwart that continues to command respect and admiration for its enduring quality and unique character: Guinness Draught. As we dive into this beer review, we revisit this iconic stout, exploring the depths of its rich history, distinctive pour, and the sensory experience it offers.

Guinness is oft an overlooked beer, especially by the craft beer drinkers, those fickle and funny group of “beer nerds”. For me its a standard, an old faithful, an old friend to revisit every so often. Particularly every St. Patrick’s Day I enjoy myself an Irish Car Bomb (or two or three), and then a straight up pint of Guinness. But there are other times and places I enjoy the delicious dark Irish brew. But there are other times as well when I reach for the old fan favorite. Dark, stormy, wintry rainy or snowy nights, at the Irish pub off the boardwalk in Atlantic City (A.C.), or when needing a nice roasty drink to go along with shepherd’s pie.

Colorado Beer Guy is currently doing a 40-Day Beer Only Lent Fast, where he is drinking only Guinness and water, and eating nothing. You can follow along with him at his beer group devoted to that task: 40-Day Beer Only Fast (Facebook Group).

Beer Review: Guinness Draught

Having a Guinness Draught with Ming and Don on St. Patrick’s Day

Beer: Guinness Draught
Brewery: Guinness
Style: Stout – Irish Dry
ABV: 4.2%
IBU: 45
Untappd Description:

Swirling clouds tumble as the storm begins to calm. Settle. Breathe in the moment, then break through the smooth, light head to the bittersweet reward.

Unmistakeably GUINNESS, from the first velvet sip to the last, lingering drop. And every deep-dark satisfying mouthful in between.

Pure beauty. Pure GUINNESS.

Guinness Draught is sold in kegs, widget cans, and bottles. The ABV varies from 4.1 to 4.3%.

Guinness Extra Cold is the exact same beer only served through a super cooler at 3.5 °C

Appearance

The appearance of Guinness Draught is nothing short of iconic, a visual poetry that captures the essence of what a stout should be. As it settles in the glass, the beer’s deep, ebony darkness is crowned by a dense, creamy head, starkly contrasting in its color. This head is remarkably persistent, lasting until the final sip, leaving a lacing that clings to the glass like a memory. The allure of its cascade, where the bubbles seem to defy physics, moving downwards before settling, is a unique spectacle. This visual allure is not merely aesthetic but a prelude to the sensory journey that Guinness offers, setting the stage for what promises to be an exceptional beer experience.

From the moment a pint of Guinness Draught is set before you, its visual appeal is undeniable. The beer’s performance begins with its signature cascade, a mesmerizing ballet of tiny bubbles dancing their way to the top, culminating in the formation of a thick, creamy head. This spectacle is not just a treat for the eyes but a testament to the nitrogen gas blend used in its serving, which sets Guinness apart from its carbon dioxide-infused counterparts. The result is a smoother, creamier texture that has become synonymous with the Guinness Draught experience.

Color

The color of Guinness Draught is almost as famous as the brand itself—a deep, opaque ebony that, when held up to the light, reveals a rich, ruby red hue. It’s a color palette that promises depth and complexity, inviting the drinker to delve deeper into what this stout has to offer.

Aroma

The aroma of Guinness Draught gently wafts through the air, a subtle yet intricate blend of scents that prepares the palate for the first taste. It’s a bouquet that doesn’t overpower but entices, with roasted barley taking the forefront, followed by undercurrents of rich coffee and a hint of dark chocolate. This trifecta of aromas is beautifully balanced, creating an inviting and warm olfactory experience. The slight earthiness and a whisper of hops add complexity, making each inhalation a discovery of layers that speaks volumes of the craftsmanship behind this legendary stout.

On the nose, Guinness Draught is subtle yet inviting. It offers hints of roasted barley, coffee, and a touch of chocolate, creating an aromatic profile that balances richness with approachability. This is not a beer that overwhelms; instead, it gently beckons you to take the first sip.

Mouthfeel

One of the most distinctive features of Guinness Draught is its mouthfeel. The use of nitrogen over the more common carbon dioxide in its carbonation process results in a beer that’s velvety smooth and almost silky to the tongue. This creaminess is a hallmark of the Guinness experience, making each sip a luxurious indulgence. Despite its robust appearance and flavor profile, the beer has a surprisingly light body that doesn’t weigh down the palate. This combination of smoothness and lightness makes Guinness Draught exceptionally drinkable, a stout that can be savored slowly over time without becoming overwhelming.

And what a sip it is. Guinness Draught delivers a taste that is both robust and nuanced. The initial flavors mirror the nose, with roasted malt and coffee notes leading the way. There’s a mild sweetness that rounds out the bitterness, and a faint, almost imperceptible smokiness that adds another layer of complexity. Despite its bold flavors, Guinness maintains a medium body that, when combined with its creamy texture, makes for an exceptionally smooth and drinkable stout.

Taste

The taste of Guinness Draught is where its true character shines through—a masterful blend of bitterness balanced with a subtle sweetness. The roasted barley that hints at its presence in the aroma comes to the forefront in the taste, delivering a rich, malted flavor with notes of coffee and a dark chocolate undertone. There’s a complexity here that is deceptively simple, with each sip revealing a new layer or nuance. The bitterness is perfectly pitched, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the malt’s richness, while the finish brings a dryness that cleanses the palate and invites further exploration. It’s a taste profile that is both satisfying and sophisticated, making each pint a journey in itself.

The finish of Guinness Draught is as satisfying as its beginning, with a pleasantly dry aftertaste that invites another sip. This beer does not linger overly long on the palate, but it leaves a memorable impression, encouraging a slow and savoring consumption.

In a beer landscape that often prizes novelty over tradition, Guinness Draught stands as a testament to the power of consistency, quality, and character. It’s a beer that transcends trends, offering the same rich, full-flavored experience that has captivated drinkers for generations. Whether you’re a stout aficionado or a casual beer drinker, Guinness Draught is a brew that deserves a place at your table. It’s not just a beer; it’s a piece of brewing history that continues to delight and surprise with every pint.

Overall

In the realm of stouts, Guinness Draught occupies a place of honor, a testament to its enduring appeal and the timeless quality of its brew. From its captivating appearance and inviting aroma to its smooth mouthfeel and balanced taste, Guinness is a beer that appeals to both the seasoned aficionado and the casual drinker alike. It’s a brew that transcends the ordinary, offering an experience that is both comforting in its familiarity and exciting in its depth. Overall, Guinness Draught is not just a beer; it’s a tradition, a piece of cultural heritage that continues to inspire and delight. Whether enjoyed in the bustling atmosphere of a pub or the quiet of one’s home, it remains a stout that stands apart, a classic that continues to define and elevate the very idea of what a beer can be.

In conclusion, this beer review reaffirms what many have known for years: Guinness Draught is more than just a stout; it’s an institution, an icon, and above all, a delightful drink that stands the test of time. Whether enjoyed in a cozy pub or at home, Guinness Draught remains a benchmark for quality, a beer that embodies the heart and soul of stout.

My Untappd Rating: ****
Global Untappd Rating: 3.77 (as of 2.3.24)

More Information on Guinness Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Guinness is a macro brewery from Dublin, County Dublin Ireland. They are a subsidiary of Diageo. They have 112 unique beers and over 2,900,000 ratings, with a global average rating of 3.52 (as of 2.3.24). Their Untappd description reads: “The Guinness® brand enjoys a global reputation as a uniquely authentic beer and the best-selling stout in the world. Famous for its dark color, creamy head and unique surge and settle, this distinctive beer originated at the St. James’s Gate brewery in Dublin, Ireland. Over 10 million glasses of Guinness beer are enjoyed every single day around the world, and 1.8 billion pints are sold every year. Guinness beer is available in well over 100 countries worldwide and is brewed in almost 50. About Diageo Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits, beer and wine categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, Buchanan’s, Windsor and Bushmills whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.”

You can find them at these social media platforms:

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Best Stouts to Help with Breastfeeding: Myth or Miracle?

B. Kline — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 20:24:51 +0000

A nice pint of Guinness Stout

When it comes to the age-old advice passed down through generations, one intriguing recommendation for breastfeeding mothers is the consumption of stout beers. The rich, dark brew is often believed to help increase milk supply. But is there any truth to this, or is it simply a well-loved myth? Let’s dive into the details.

The Historical Context

The idea that certain stouts can aid in breastfeeding isn’t new. Historically, dark beers like stouts have been thought to boost milk production due to their higher levels of barley and hops. While the scientific evidence supporting this is limited, many mothers swear by this practice.

Top Stouts Often Recommended

Here are a few stouts that are frequently mentioned in discussions about breastfeeding:

Guinness Draught

Guinness is often recommended due to its relatively low alcohol content and rich nutritional profile. This classic Irish stout is smooth and easy to drink, making it a popular choice.

Oatmeal Stouts

Oatmeal stouts are believed to be beneficial because oats are known to support milk production. Here are two popular options:

Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout: This stout has a rich, creamy texture and a slight sweetness that pairs well with its roasted malt flavor.
Founders Breakfast Stout: With notes of coffee and chocolate, this stout is a favorite among beer enthusiasts.

Milk Stouts

Milk stouts contain lactose, a sugar derived from milk, which can be beneficial for milk production. Here are some examples:

Left Hand Milk Stout: This stout is known for its creamy mouthfeel and slightly sweet finish.
Mackeson’s XXX Milk Stout: This classic milk stout is smooth and rich, with a touch of sweetness from the lactose.

Important Considerations

While the idea of enjoying a stout to boost milk production is appealing, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:

Moderation is Key

Alcohol consumption should be limited while breastfeeding. The CDC suggests no more than one standard drink per day and waiting at least 2 hours after a single drink before breastfeeding to ensure the alcohol has left your system.

Alcohol-Free Options

For those who prefer to avoid alcohol altogether, there are many non-alcoholic stouts and beers that can provide the same psychological benefit without the alcohol content.

Nutrition and Hydration

A well-balanced diet and staying hydrated are crucial for milk production. Ensure you’re getting enough fluids and nutrients to support both you and your baby.

Six Stouts to Try While Breastfeeding

Stout isn’t just a delicious dark beer that can drink like a meal. It’s also long been believed to be a breastfeeding new mom’s best friend. While some studies warn against nursing mothers consuming alcohol, many doctors believe the occasional drink doesn’t hurt. In certain cultures, dark beer is even considered beneficial: It’s been used to increase the flow of breast milk since the ancient Egyptians started brewing beer 5,000 years ago.

There’s some science behind this belief. Barley, a main ingredient in stout, contains a polysaccharide that increases prolactin, a milk-production hormone. Oats, another common ingredient in stouts, are also thought to promote healthy milk supply, as is vitamin-B-heavy brewer’s yeast. Of course, a beer with a mild proof is the best option for new moms––milk stouts tend to have reasonable ABVs.

These six creamy milk and oatmeal stouts will please those feeding tiny humans from their own bodies and anyone else who appreciates good beer.

1. Copper Kettle Milk Stout ($11 per six-pack)

Made with actual lactose, the ingredient that gives milk stout its name and creamy character, this brew is sweet and malty. While it doesn’t actually taste like milk, this Denver beer has a chocolate milk character and velvety mouthfeel that’s pretty irresistible. At 5.6% ABV, why resist?

2. Finkel & Garf Oatmeal Milk Stout ($9 per six-pack)

From craft-beer-loving Colorado, this oatmeal milk stout is less sweet than a typical milk stout but not quite as heavy as an oatmeal stout. It drinks more like a main course than dessert, but isn’t overly filling. At 5.5% ABV, it shows satisfying malty, coffee, and chocolatey notes.

3. Guinness Milk Stout ($11 per six-pack)

Guinness released its milk stout as part of The Brewers Project series. Using the same yeast base as classic Guinness, this stout offers a kiss of sweetness from the addition of milk sugars, plus bittering hops and roasted barley. It’s smooth and creamy with a toasty chocolate milk undertone. Not quite as low ABV as the original, which clocks in at 4.2%, the 5.3% milk stout is undeniably sessionable.

4. Left Hand Milk Stout ($10 per six-pack)

With roasted barley, flaked oats, and flaked barley, this delightful milk stout is rich and chocolaty thanks, in no small part, to the addition of actual chocolate. At 6% ABV, it’s surprisingly approachable with its sweet, toasty notes and seductive mocha character.

5. Samuel Smith Oatmeal Stout ($12 per four-pack)

This 5% ABV beer contains hops, malted barley, brewer’s yeast, and oats, making it your classic oatmeal stout recipe. Each batch is fermented in stone Yorkshire squares in the oldest brewery in Tadcaster, England. The result is a refreshing and filling drink with a smooth and bittersweet finish.

6. Sand Creek Oscar’s Chocolate Oatmeal Stout ($7.50 per six-pack)

Oatmeal, chocolate, and barley sound like the components of a breakfast of champions, but they also come together beautifully in dark beer. This nutty, slightly sweet Wisconsin brew caps at 5.6% ABV. It’s “full-bodied yet smooth-drinking,” according to the brewer.

Final Thoughts

While some mothers find that enjoying a stout helps with milk production, it’s essential to approach this practice with caution. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant before making any changes to your diet or alcohol consumption while breastfeeding.

Ultimately, whether it’s for the potential benefits or simply for the love of a good craft beer, enjoying a well-crafted stout can be a delightful experience. Cheers to happy and healthy breastfeeding!

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