Some people think of stouts as extremely thick and strong beers. While certain stouts are indeed heavy, many versions are low in alcohol and perfect to enjoy with dinner or on a chilly evening at the pub. If you’re interested in trying this delicious beverage, here’s what you should know.

A Guide to Stouts

What Is a Stout?

Originally known as a stronger version of a porter, a stout is a dark, top-fermented beer that consists of malt, hops, water, yeast, and black, unmalted barley. The barley is responsible for most of the stout’s color and flavor.

A stout’s head is typically tan to brown, while the body is dark brown or black. The rich, full flavor may include hints of chocolate, coffee, molasses, and licorice. Stouts taste wonderful when paired with a wide variety of foods, including meat, salty foods, barbecued and grilled foods, and desserts.

Popular Stouts 

Probably the best-known variety, the dry stout is a classic Irish beverage. It features a coffee-like aroma, rich flavor, and low alcohol content that makes it an excellent choice for dinner. It appears completely black with a creamy, long-lasting head.

Slightly sweeter than a dry stout, the oatmeal stout has a silky, smooth mouthfeel. Its flavor tends to be less sharp than that of other stouts, making it a great option for a first-timer. 

Created in Russia, the imperial stout has a dark amber color and high alcohol content. It can include a variety of intense flavors and aromas such as dark chocolate, fruit, and burnt grain. To lessen the intensity, some people age imperial stouts for a blending effect. 

Enjoy a rich, creamy stout with a mouthwatering dinner at Bud’s Sports Bar. Located in Chattanooga, TN, this casual restaurant is the ideal spot to watch every NFL, MLB, NBA, and collegiate game. As you savor their domestic and locally brewed craft beers, chow down on delicious entrees such as blackened prime rib strips and chicken wings before indulging in a scrumptious cheesecake or brownie sundae. The restaurant also hosts a number of fun events, including regular karaoke nights. Browse their drink and food menus online and call (423) 499-9878 to ask about daily lunch and dinner specials.