Dark beer is a broad term that encompasses a variety of beer styles that are characterised by their dark colour and rich, complex flavours. Some of the most popular dark beer styles include stouts, porters, and dark lagers. Here is everything you need to know about dark beer, including its history, characteristics, and some fun facts:
- The history of dark beer:
Dark beer has a long and storied history, with some of the earliest examples dating back to ancient civilisations. The first known dark beer was a type of ancient Egyptian beer, which was made from barley, bread, and dates.
In the Middle Ages, dark beer styles such as stouts and porters emerged in England. These beers were made with roasted malt, which gave them their dark colour and rich, roasty flavours. Dark beer became popular with working-class people, particularly in London, where porter was the favoured beer of the city's porters and other manual labourers.
- The characteristics of dark beer:
Dark beer is characterised by its dark colour, which can range from deep brown to almost black. It is usually made with roasted malt, which gives it its dark colour and rich, roasty flavours. Dark beer also has a full body and a moderate to high alcohol content, ranging from 4-8% ABV.
In terms of flavour, dark beer can vary widely depending on the specific style. Some common flavours found in dark beer include chocolate, coffee, caramel, and dark fruit.
- The different types of dark beer:
There are several different types of dark beer, each with its own unique characteristics and flavours. Some of the most popular types of dark beer include:
- Stout: This type of dark beer is characterised by its rich, creamy texture and flavours of chocolate, coffee, and roasted malt. It is usually black in colour and has a full body and a high alcohol content, ranging from 4-8% ABV.
- Porter: This type of dark beer is characterised by its smooth, full-bodied texture and flavours of chocolate, coffee, and caramel. It is usually brown to black in colour and has a moderate to high alcohol content, ranging from 4-6% ABV.
- Dark lager: This type of dark beer is characterised by its crisp, clean flavour and dark colour. It is usually amber to brown in colour and has a medium to full body and a moderate alcohol content, ranging from 4-6% ABV.
- Fun facts about dark beer:
- Dark beer has a long and storied history, with some of the earliest examples dating back to ancient civilisations.
- Dark beer styles such as stouts and porters emerged in England in the Middle Ages.
- Dark beer is characterised by its dark colour, full body, and rich, complex flavours.
- Some popular types of dark beer include stout, porter, and dark lager.
- Dark beer is often enjoyed during the colder months and pairs well with hearty, rich foods.
