Why Porters Deserve More Love Among Craft Beer Fans
While stouts often steal the limelight in the world of dark beers, porters remain an underestimated gem that deserves equal, if not more, admiration. Imagine them as the jelly to a stout’s peanut butter—integral, yet frequently overshadowed. Porters bring a symphony of flavors ranging from malty sweetness to roasty richness, with notes of chocolate and nuts dancing through each sip. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, these versatile brews are perfect companions for the changing seasons.
In the “Available in Most Stores Right Now” series, porters have presented a delightful challenge. With fewer appearances on brewery tap lists compared to their stout counterparts, finding standout examples of this classic style can become a treasured discovery. Nonetheless, porters offer a balanced experience that strikes a harmony between malty, slightly bitter, and occasionally hoppy, making it a style worth exploring for any craft beer enthusiast.
Exploring the World of Porters: A Diverse Lineage
Quick Recap: The Porter’s Journey
Porters have a rich history that traces back to 18th-century England. Born from a need to satisfy the hearty thirsts of London’s hardworking porters, this dark, robust beer established itself as a sturdier sibling to traditional brown ales. Over the years, it has spawned various substyles, including robust, milk, imperial, coffee, and even Baltic porters, each adding its own twist to the timeless template.
Historically, brewers produced two variations—one with a lighter touch and a more premium robust offering. This tradition continues today with craft breweries distinguishing between the smoother English porters and the bolder, hoppier American versions. The Baltic porter, with its lager yeast fermentation, stands apart with higher alcohol content and a unique flavor profile. In modern brewing, creative brewers often incorporate adjuncts like coffee, chocolate, or lactose, adding layers of complexity to this already nuanced beer.
Our Top Picks: Outstanding Porters to Savor
Bell’s Brewery Porter
If you’re looking for a classic American porter that perfectly bridges the gap between stout and brown ale, Bell’s Brewery Porter is your go-to choice. This year-round favorite offers stunning chocolate, coffee, and toasted dark bread notes, easily capturing the hearts of beer aficionados. With Bell’s recent expansion, you can now find their creations in all fifty U.S. states.
Deschutes Black Butte Porter
Deschutes Brewery’s Black Butte Porter is a renowned staple in the American craft beer scene. Named after Oregon’s iconic Black Butte, this porter delivers a luxurious mouthfeel and intense roastiness with a balanced chocolate-coffee backbone. Find this legendary brew across the country and experience the quintessential American porter.
DuClaw Sweet Baby Jesus! Peanut Butter Porter
For those who fancy a twist, DuClaw Brewing’s Sweet Baby Jesus! offers a new take on a porter with its irresistible peanut butter and chocolate fusion. With a lighter body, this beer allows the peanut flavor to shine, complemented by chocolate undertones for that perfect dessert-like finish. Available in twenty-four states, this unique brew is a must-try for adventurous beer lovers.
Great Lakes Edmund Fitzgerald® Porter
Honoring the legendary shipwreck, Great Lakes Brewing’s Edmund Fitzgerald® Porter has become a celebrated name, winning numerous awards for its excellent blend of dark chocolate, toffee, and a subtle hoppy bite. Widely distributed across sixteen states, this beer promises a taste of excellence that’s steeped in both history and flavor.
Left Hand Death Before Disco Porter
Left Hand Brewing presents a lively take with their Death Before Disco Porter. This nearly jet-black brew excites the palate with notes of roasted coffee, cocoa, and even a hint of berry jam. Available year-round in forty-six states, this porter embodies a dynamic blend that’s perfect for those seeking a flavorful nightcap.
Oskar Blues Death By Coconut Porter
Oskar Blues’ Death By Coconut brings a tropical flair to the robust porter family. With semisweet chocolate and coconut flavors, this limited release will transport you to a tropical paradise. Although limited, its distribution across all fifty states means dedicated seekers can capture its allure with a little effort.
Revolution Eugene Porter®
Dive into Revolution Brewing’s Eugene Porter®, a standout American porter named after a historical union leader. With Belgian specialty malts, this robust porter unfolds deep chocolate and caramel notes, making it exceptionally enjoyable in colder months. Find it year-round in eleven states for a comforting sip.
Sierra Nevada Porter
Sierra Nevada presents a hoppier counterpart with their namesake porter. Infused with Aurora and Yakima Golding hops, this beer echoes Baker’s chocolate and cocoa flavors, making it distinct from the usual porter lineup. Whether you’re after a game-day companion or a post-slope reward, this brew is a hearty fit.
Smuttynose Robust Porter
Smuttynose’s award-winning Robust Porter offers a light yet complex profile, gradually revealing its depths as it warms. Available across twenty-six states, this beer offers a straightforward drinkability with sophisticated character, making it a solid choice for those venturing into porter territory.
For more porter discoveries and craft beer adventures, visit BreweriesNearMe.us, your ultimate guide to brewing excellence across the U.S.
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