Beer drinkers are "turning to the dark side", said Adrian Tierney-Jones in The Telegraph, as sales of stout continue to soar.
Originating in London in the 18th century, stout "dominated" the British beer market until the end of the 20th century, when its popularity dipped as lager began arriving from mainland Europe, said Andrew Ellson in The Times.
But now no longer seen as the preserve of old men or "rugby lads", the dark, velvety ale is the fastest-growing beer variety in the UK, expanding its appeal to younger drinkers, including a growing number of women. Even Kim Kardashian was snapped sipping a pint of the "black stuff" in a London boozer last year. Here are some of the best brands to try:
Siren: Hard Pour Broken Dream Brewed with coffee and dosed with nitrogen, Siren's Hard Pour Broken Dream "could pass for a Guinness", said John Bett in The Mirror. "Smooth" and "velvety" with a subtle flavour, it's "got quite the punch" at 6.5% ABV.
Loch Lomond Brewery: Silkie Stout Scottish oats give Loch Lomond Brewery's Silkie Stout a "creamy texture" that perfectly complements the rich chocolate flavour and notes of roast barley, said Mark Dredge in delicious magazine.
Hook Norton Brewery: Double Stout Based on an original Victorian recipe, this "rich" stout has "aromas redolent of roast coffee beans" and liquorice, said Tierney-Jones, and a long, dry finish and refreshing hoppy aftertaste. |