Even if beer is a foreign concept to you, you’ve probably heard of Guinness. The internationally renowned Irish outfit, launched by Arthur Guinness in 1757, is responsible for some of the most popular beer on the planet.
Since its founding more than two centuries ago, Guinness has grown to exceptional fame. The brewery is especially known for its stout, available just about everywhere and extra lauded each St. Patrick’s Day.
Do note that two of the most popular dark beers the brewery creates are the Extra Stout and the Draught.
The stately elder of the two, Guinness Extra Stout, is based on a recipe from 1821. This flagship Guinness beer remains what pretty much every other release is based on. It’s a classic, and generous on the nose with pronounced malted milkshake notes. The flavors are pleasantly even, made up of cacao, nutty notes, cola, molasses, and even a pinch of fruity esters.
The beer finishes elegantly, like a sip of coffee after a nibble of chocolate chip cookie. What’s perhaps most remarkable about it is that it boasts all of this while showing a fair deal of restraint. It’s a stout for every day of the year, whether it’s brisk outside or you’re camped out next to the air conditioner.
While there’s no denying the mouthfeel that Guinness Draught affords, the Extra Stout boasts more complexity.
