As far as we’re concerned at The Growler Guys, every day should be dedicated to craft beer. And today the world agrees – November 6th is International Stout Day! Beer lovers around the world are raising a glass to one of the richest, most complex styles out there. Before you head to your local Growler Guys to celebrate with some of the best stouts around, let’s get into what makes this dark, velvety beer style so legendary.
What Makes a Stout So Special?
Born in 18th-century English pubs, stouts evolved from porters. At the time, porters were dark, roasty ales that fueled the working class. Over time, brewers discovered they could create a stronger, bolder version of the porter by using roasted barley and experimenting with fermentation techniques. The result? The stout: a rich, creamy brew packed with character.
What really makes stouts fascinating is their range. They can be sweet or dry, light-bodied or thick as cream, and they often feature flavor notes of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, molasses, caramel, and even smoke. Some stouts are aged in bourbon barrels for an added depth, while others showcase modern twists with vanilla, coconut, peanut butter, or chili peppers. In short, there’s no shortage of variations to try for International Stout Day.
The Many Faces of the Stout
If you’re new to stouts (or even if you’re a superfan), it’s worth exploring the different varieties pouring from taps today.
Dry Irish Stout: Think Guinness: a classic example with roasted coffee and bittersweet chocolate notes, balanced by a crisp, dry finish.
Milk Stout: Brewed with lactose sugar, these are creamy, slightly sweet, and perfect for dessert lovers.
Oatmeal Stout: Thanks to oats in the grain bill, this style is smooth and silky, making it easy to drink.
Imperial Stout: The heavyweight champion of the stout family, these have a high ABV, a deep malt richness, and a bold, boozy warmth.
Pastry Stout: This modern twist incorporates flavors inspired by baked goods, like brownie batter, caramel drizzles, and s’mores.
With that many diverse options, it can be hard to know where to start, but tap houses like The Growler Guys make it easy. With several of the best local and global stouts on tap, you can curate a flight of flavors to celebrate International Stout Day.
Pairing Perfection: What to Eat on International Stout Day
Stouts are incredibly food-friendly. Their roasted malt backbone pairs well with both hearty fare and rich desserts. Here are some pairings to try as you celebrate International Stout Day.
Dry Stout + Oysters: The oyster’s salty brine complements the stout’s dry, roasty flavor. It’s a classic combo that goes back centuries.
Milk Stout + BBQ: The sweet and smoky flavors play perfectly together, enhancing the caramelized edges of smoked meats.
Imperial Stout + Chocolate Cake: Rich meets richer – need we say more?
Oatmeal Stout + Shepherd’s Pie: The stout’s malty smoothness cuts through the savory, meaty goodness.
Celebrate International Stout Day at The Growler Guys
Join us at The Growler Guys and toast to all things dark and delicious on International Stout Day. Our extensive rotating tap list is filled with limited releases, local favorites, and a few surprises. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask our certified Beer Stewards about a stout flight. Sampling a lineup of different stouts side by side is one of the best ways to appreciate the depth and diversity of this beloved beer style. So gather your friends, raise your glasses high, and cheers to dark beer, good company, and the passion that keeps the taps flowing.
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