OVERVIEW
International Stout Day is celebrated every year on the first Thursday of November to honor one of the most iconic and beloved beer styles, popular for its bold taste, with notes of coffee, chocolate and even spices, deep color, roasted malt character, and longer shelf life.
This drink was created in the 18th century from the porters in London, but the day was established in 2011 to bring together beer enthusiasts, brewers and pubs across the globe in appreciation of this rich, dark and flavorful brew.
In conclusion, the term stout originally meant strong and it was used to describe the tough versions of porter beers but, over time, the word developed its own identity, with many variations like dry stout, milk stout, oatmeal stout and the imperial stout. The last one, in particular, was famously brewed to impress Russian royalty.
HISTORY – TIMELINE
INTERNATIONAL STOUT DAY ACTIVITIES
DRINK GUINESS - Since the early 1800s, Guinness has been making their world-famous stout and, while it may take years to refine the perfect pour, it only takes minutes to drink it.
DRINK A STOUT SAMPLER - With so many brands and varieties, it may be a little daunting to find out which stout is right for you. Luckily, many bars now offer beer flights, a tray of small portions of different kinds of beers.
MAKE YOUR OWN STOUT - Home brewed stouts make perfect gifts, and they're a great way to impress your friends when it’s your turn to host. There are also many different stout-brewing kits available to make the process a little easier.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
- The stout as we know it today is like the little brother of the porter, which dates back to the Industrial Revolution;
- Stouts typically have a strong, roasted malt flavor and often contain notes of dark chocolate, coffee, caramel, and licorice;
- Stouts usually are on the thicker and creamier side of beers, which make them somewhat hefty and substantial;
- In the early 20th century, stouts, and Guinness in particular, were thought to be nutritious;
- Blood donors, people who had just undergone surgery, and pregnant women were often advised by doctors to have a pint of Guinness.
CONCLUSIONS
International Stout Day is a tribute to craftmanship, history and the joy of sharing a good beer. On the first Thursday of November, beer lovers around the world raise their glasses to a drink that’s bold, complex and versatile.
Source: nationaltoday.com
