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Beer Styles

Stout

Beer style guide

Reviewed by , Drinks Editor
StoutAleAle • Stout4–8% ABV25–60 IBUmedium bodymedium-high bitterness

Is this for me?

Choose this if…

  • ✓You enjoy rich, roasty flavours — coffee, chocolate or dark malt.

Skip if…

  • ✗You prefer lighter, hop-forward or crisp beers.

What is Stout?

A dark ale defined by the intense roasted character of heavily kilned malts — typically expressing strong coffee bitterness and dark chocolate, with a full body and low to moderate sweetness. The roast flavour is the defining trait, ranging from dry-bitter (Irish dry stout) to rich and sweet (milk stout).

Best For

Hop loversIPA fansAleAle • Stout

Food Pairings

ChocolateDessertBBQKorean BBQSteakOysters

Taste & Style

medium-high bitternessmedium bodyCoffeeRoastedChocolateStout

Flavour profile

Coffee(medium)Roasted(high)Chocolate(medium)

Food pairings

Best for

Also known as

Stout (common_name)

Frequently asked questions

What is Stout?
A dark ale defined by the intense roasted character of heavily kilned malts — typically expressing strong coffee bitterness and dark chocolate, with a full body and low to moderate sweetness. The roast flavour is the def
What does Stout taste like?
Stout is often described as Coffee, Roasted, Chocolate. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and brewery.
What foods pair with Stout?
Stout pairs well with Chocolate, Dessert, BBQ, Korean BBQ. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
How strong is Stout?
Stout typically has an ABV of 4–8%. A standard serving contains approximately 90–320. Strength and calorie content vary by producer and batch.
When should I enjoy Stout?
Stout suits casual social occasions, food pairings and sessions where you want a flavourful but approachable beer. The style profile makes it versatile across a range of settings.
What beers are similar to Stout?
If you enjoy Stout, explore other beer styles with a similar bitterness and body rating using the sensory bars as a guide. Styles with a matching profile score will feel closest in character.
What are some popular examples of Stout?
Many breweries produce Stout across different regions. Seek out local craft examples for fresh flavour, or look for well-reviewed commercial options widely available in bottle shops and pubs.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare beer styles at a glance.
How do I use the sensory profile to find beers I like?
If you like hoppy beers look for High Bitterness. For smooth, easy-drinking beers choose Soft Bitterness and Light Body. Use the Beginner-Friendly rating to find beers that match your experience level.

Style information is approximate and can vary by producer, region and recipe.