Stout and Porter

Stout and Porter are dark craft beers and are very similar and look like one of a kind. But did you know that stout beer originally comes from porter beer? The original “Stout Porter” beer was developed and brewed in London back in the 18th century! Read more about stout and porter beer below. 

The history of porter 

Porter beer is brewed from “Brown Ale” and was originally brewed in London, the capital of England, during the 18th century. Porter is a dark beer, but despite its appearance, this beer is anything but strong. In this craft beer you can recognize roasted flavors. And what about the name? Where does it come from? Well, this beer was mostly drunk by English ‘porters’ (a person who carries luggage and other loads, especially in a railway station, airport or harbor). At the end of a long working day, they like to drink a porter beer. 

The history of stout 

Throughout the years, porter beer gained popularity. This meant that craft beers got more attention, so more breweries started adopting them and developing these types of beers. Recipes and brewing methods where (slightly) changed which resulted in different types and variations of porter beers, all based upon the traditional version. Different breweries started experimenting with new ingredients, but most striking was the fact that the alcohol percentage was increased. That is how ‘stout porter’, nowadays called ‘stout’, came alive

The differences between porter and stout 

Well, it is all about the details when you are looking for the differences between these two beers. Porter craft has a beautiful copper to dark brown color. You can discover fruity flavors when you smell the aroma’s, but also subtle notes of coffee, caramel and roasted malt are present. Porter beer has a rich taste, is somewhat sweet and can be described as lightly roasted. 

When you compare stout beer to its brother (because these two beers are like family), one can say that the color is somewhat darker, but in a really smooth way. The taste of stout is bitter, dry and roasted. The aroma of this beer can be described as sour, but above all you will taste the roasted malt.. 

The alcohol percentage of porter and stout craft beers vary widely. They can range between 5% and 15%. 

Variations on porter and stout craft beers

Like many different kinds of beers and styles, porter and stout are released in many different variations and forms, by many breweries around the world. The main differences are found within the brewing process. Think about different ingredients or diverse alcohol percentages. Below you will find varieties on porter and stout beers: 

Smoked Porter:

This one is characterized by the addition of smoked malt, which can also be recognized in the flavor of this beer.

Robust Porter:

Richer, darker and heavier in means of alcohol percentage, when compared to a traditional porter beer. 

(Russian) Imperial Stout: 

The strongest stout variation with extra ingredients.

Irish Dry Stout:

An easy to drink stout with a ‘dry’ taste, brewed by different breweries such as Guinness Brewery.

Pastry Stout:

Relatively new kind of stout beer with a creamy aftertaste due to using lactose as one of the main ingredients. 

Barrel Aged:

Matured in wooden barrels, for example of cognac or whiskey.

The most delicious porter and stout beers can be found at Beer Republic

Beer Republic has the widest range of stout and porter beers from all over the world. From ‘Desserts in a Can’ to different Barrel Aged variations with diverse alcohol percentages. Order now and enjoy your beers in the upcoming weekend! Cheers!