Stout season is here

Winter is upon us, and that means it’s time to give the hazy pales a rest and hook into some delicious dark craft beers. Stout season is finally here, and we’re gearing up to indulge in some of the richest, darkest brews around. Let’s explore what makes stouts so unique and tasty!

What is a stout beer?

A stout is a beer that usually sports a deep, dark hue that'd make the night sky jealous. It's all about bold flavours and a mouthfeel as smooth as a tinny sliding down a bar. Roasted barley, that's the secret weapon. It's what gives stouts their iconic dark colour.

How do stouts taste compared to other beers?

Now, here's the thing, mate, the answer to this curly question depends on the stout you're tucking into. But, as a general rule of thumb, stouts are like the big, burly blokes of the beer world. They're rich, full-bodied, and pack a flavour punch that'll leave you grinning like a possum up a gum tree. Picture this: roasted malt swoops in with coffee and chocolate notes, like a barista and chocolatier working overtime in your glass.

But that's not all, some brewers toss in lactose, and that's the secret sauce. It's like a dash of sweetness and creaminess that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Ddepending on the ingredients used, stouts can even throw some fruity or smoky flavours, just to keep you on your toes.

What are some of the different variations of stouts available today?

Stouts aren't a one-size-fits-all kind of brew. They come in a range of styles that'll make your taste buds do the tango.

Starting with the Dry Irish Stout, this one's a legend in its own right. It's like a sessionable, easy-going mate. These brews tend to be lower in alcohol by volume (ABV), making them perfect for a few rounds at the local pub without feeling like you've got cement boots on. They're smooth, slightly roasted, and often have a dry, coffee-like finish. Think of it as the Guinness you'd find at your favorite Irish pub.

Now, cruise along to the Sweet Stout. This one's the dessert of the stout world, with a bit more sweetness, creaminess, and sometimes a hint of chocolate or caramel thanks to a bit of lactose thrown in. It's like a liquid dessert that's still got that stout backbone.

Then, there's the Oatmeal Stout. These are like the velvety smooth operator of the stout gang. They bring oats into the mix, which adds a silky texture to your sips. They're often well-balanced, not too heavy, and have notes of coffee and chocolate.

Imperial Stouts are the heavy hitters, the big daddies of the stout universe. These beasts are high in ABV and pack a punch like a kangaroo with a chip on its shoulder. They're thick, intense, and often aged in barrels for extra complexity. Think of them as the epic, slow-sipping nightcap by the campfire 🔥

Stout beers are the true-blue champions of the brew scene. There's a stout style to suit every Aussie occasion. So, next time you're on the hunt for a brew that's as bold as a croc in a billabong, remember, stouts are your trusty mates in the world of beer. Cheers to the dark and delicious side of life! 🍻