Guinness is without a doubt the world’s most famous stout and arguably Ireland’s greatest export but there are plenty of other creamy, delicious stouts out there, and plenty that are brewed right here in Victoria. And the options? Well, there’s plenty of them, too. You’ve got easy breezy stouts which are almost certainly sessionable, you’ve got gluten-free stouts, and you’ve got 10 per cent ABV stouts that will knock your socks off.
Not sure where to start? Make The Switch right now with Mikey Agudelo from @cocktails_with_mike, who also happens to be a massive beer nerd.
Alright Mikey, if I’m not drinking Guinness, but I still want a stout that’s sessionable and downright delicious, what am I pouring?
I’d be reaching for a good old Boatrocker Stout brewed in Melbourne’s southeast. It’s a beautiful full-bodied English-style stout that feels hearty and traditional, and it’s great for those stout drinkers that like less of that roasted or burnt taste, and it’s not too sweet either. It’s approachable for drinkers who like stouts but don’t want the extreme. An eye opener for me was that Boatrocker Stout really holds its taste and flavour in the glass for those who enjoy drinking beer a bit slower. There’s notes of coffee and chocolate, it’s super smooth, and it’s velvety. What more could you want?
And how about an all-rounder? Something that tastes great but something that doesn’t feel too heavy?
We got the perfect switch for that! Two Bays’ No Doubt Stout, brewed just down the coast here in Victoria. It’s a gluten-free alternative that tastes like a stout should. No bloating, no worries, you know? It also makes those social occasions easier for those with gluten restrictions. The No Doubt Stout still has this very rich dark colour, and when you try it it’s ridiculously smooth, even though it stands out stronger at 6.2 per cent ABV. It’s a gold standard – and a gold-medal winner at the Australian International Beer Awards.
And if I’m looking for the final boss of stouts? Something rich? Something full flavoured? Something special?
Look no further! Stomping Ground’s Into the Woods Stout would be as I say the final boss brewed in Collingwood. Best poured in a nice frosty beer glass. You’ll see this robust amber foam once it’s poured and settled, and what made Stomping Ground’s stout stand out for me is the process in brewing it. Well-rested in my favourite Gospel Solera Rye Whiskey barrels also made here in Victoria. This barrel-aging adds depth and richness beyond what a straight stout gives you and you’ve got fantastic aromas of rich dark chocolate, espresso, oak and vanilla. Yum. I’d enjoy this stout in sips or smaller pours while chatting with mates given it’s sitting at the 10 per cent ABV mark.
Check out more excellent locally made drinks and make The Switch right here.