What Is Stout? A Dark History in a Glass

If you’re just dipping your toe into the world of beer styles especially the alcohol-free and low-ABV kind you’ve probably seen the word stout pop up. But what exactly is a stout? And why does it always look so dark and mysterious, like something a Victorian poet might sip by candlelight?

Let’s crack it open.

So, What Is a Stout?

In the simplest terms, stout is a dark, rich beer that usually packs flavours of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and sometimes a touch of sweetness or smoke. It gets its deep colour and toasty flavour from roasted barley grains that have been kilned until they’re nearly burnt, giving the beer its signature edge.

Stouts are known for their creamy mouthfeel and fuller body, often poured with a thick, foamy head. While traditional stouts can be strong and boozy, there are now plenty of low-alcohol and alcohol-free stouts that keep the bold flavour without the buzz.

The Origins: A Tale of Two Beers

The story of stout begins with another classic British beer porter. Back in 18th-century London, porter was the drink of choice for the city’s working class, especially the porters who hauled goods around town (hence the name). It was dark, hearty, and relatively strong for the time.

As brewers experimented with the style, they started making stronger, bolder versions of porter. These were often called stout porters with “stout” simply meaning “strong.” So originally, stout wasn’t a style on its own; it was a description.

Eventually, the “porter” part dropped off, and stout grew into its own identity. By the 19th century, you had stouts ranging from dry Irish versions to sweeter milk stouts and even imperial stouts brewed to impress the Russian court (more on those another time!).

Types of Stout

Stout isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of beer. There are a few substyles worth knowing about:

• Dry Stout – Think Guinness. Roasty, smooth, and not too sweet.
• Sweet/Milk Stout – Made with lactose (milk sugar), these are creamy and slightly sweet.
• Oatmeal Stout – Oats in the mash add a silky texture and mellow flavour.
• Imperial Stout – Big, bold, and boozy. Originally brewed for export to Russia. (Not your weeknight tipple.)
• Alcohol-Free Stout – The new kid on the block, replicating the style’s rich flavour without the ABV.

A New Era: The Rise of the Alcohol-Free Stout

Stout might have a centuries-old history, but it’s having a bit of a modern moment especially in the alcohol-free space. Craft breweries have been getting creative, finding ways to recreate the rich body and flavour of a classic stout without the alcohol and good example being Bonfire Smoked Stout from Drop Bear.

For anyone who wants that cozy, fireside pint without the hangover, alcohol-free stouts are a game-changer. And because the style already leans on bold roasted malts and creamy textures (rather than hops or fermentation esters), it’s often one of the most convincing alcohol-free beer styles out there.

Final Sip

Stout is proof that beer doesn’t have to be light and bubbly to be good. Whether you’re drinking a classic dry Irish stout or a modern alcohol-free version, there’s something undeniably comforting about its roasted depth and smooth finish.

So next time you’re scanning the alcohol-free section, don’t be afraid of the dark pick up a stout and see what all the (deliciously roasty) fuss is about.