Porter beer is a rich and dark style of beer that originated in England during the 1700s. It is known for its deep ruby brown to black color, dark malts that impart chocolate and caramel flavors, and well-balanced, hearty characteristics. One variation of porter beer is the smoked porter, which adds a unique smoky flavor to the brew. In this article, we will explore the history, styles, serving suggestions, food pairings, and some of the best brands of smoked porter beer.
The Difference Between Porter and Stout
Porters and stouts are closely related beer styles, with stouts possibly having been a variation of porter that has developed into a separate category. While the line between the two styles is often blurred, there are some distinguishing characteristics. Both porters and stouts are dark beers with a dark brown to black color. They typically use a pale malt base enhanced with dark malts, such as crystal, chocolate, and black malts. However, stouts often use roasted barley, while porters generally do not. Stouts are also typically thicker and heartier than porters. Both styles can include adjuncts like chocolate, coffee, and vanilla for added flavor.
Styles of Porter Beer
English Brown Porter
English brown porters showcase the original characteristics of the porter style. They have a very dark brown color with mild notes of roasted grains, chocolate, and toffee in the aroma. The flavor is mild and lacks the harsh or bitter notes of a stout. These porters are often made with British pale ale malts and enhanced with brown, crystal, and chocolate malts. The alcohol content typically ranges from 5% to 6% ABV.
Baltic Porter
Baltic porters are a lagered variation of porter, cold-fermented with lager yeast. Originally brewed in England, they are now commonly brewed in Scandinavia, the Baltic States, Poland, and Russia. Baltic porters have the maltiness of a brown porter with the roasted crispness of a schwarzbier. They are full-bodied with a silky and creamy mouthfeel. The taste often includes a balance of smoke, roasted malt, and hoppy bitterness. These porters have a deep ruby to black color and are high in alcohol, ranging from 7% to 10% ABV.
American Porter
The American porter is an English-inspired style with a distinctly American character. There are few style rules, allowing brewers to add their own twist to the beer. American porters can range from mild to hoppy and may include flavors like chocolate, coffee, and vanilla. Some are also barrel-aged in former whiskey barrels. These porters typically have a medium brown to black color and an alcohol content ranging from 4% to 7% ABV.
American Imperial Porter
American imperial porters amplify every element of the porter style. They often have a moderate caramel, cocoa, and malt sweetness that complements native American hops. The malt and hops selection and the hoppiness can vary from beer to beer, allowing for a wide range of interpretations. American imperial porters are almost always black and highly alcoholic, ranging from 7% to 12% ABV.
Robust Porter
Robust porters are a more flavorful version of brown porters, with more pronounced bitterness and roasted malt flavors. They are often considered to be the porter style that comes closest to stouts. The primary difference between robust porters and stouts is that the roasted flavors in porters come from malt, not roasted barley. Robust porters have the sharp bitterness of black malt, offset by caramel and malt sweetness. They typically have a moderate alcohol content ranging from 1% to 6% ABV.
Smoke Porter
Smoke porters are robust porters that have smoky flavors added with the use of wood-smoked malt. Different types of wood can be used, each imparting different nuances to the beer's final taste. Smoke porters usually have a moderate level of hop bitterness, ranging from 20 to 40 IBUs. The alcohol content of smoke porters can range from 1% to 9% ABV.
Serving Suggestions for Porter Beer
Porter beer is best served between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, similar to most ales. It is recommended to keep porter beer at cellar temperatures rather than refrigerating it for the best drinking experience. Nonic pint glasses are the preferred vessel for serving porter beer, as they show off the aromatic qualities of the brew while making it easy to drink. American imperial porters are often served in stemmed tulip glasses. When pouring porter beer, tilt the glass to a 45-degree angle, gently pour onto the side of the glass, and slowly raise it upright to achieve a nice balance between the beer and the foamy head.
Food Pairings for Porter Beer
Porter beer's complex combination of flavors makes it a versatile pairing option for a variety of foods. While it can be enjoyed alone, porter beer pairs well with meat dishes, cheeses, and desserts. English brown and robust porters are excellent with grilled meat and gruyere cheese, and they complement baked goods that include chocolate and peanut butter. American porters go well with chicken dishes, while smoke porters are a great accompaniment to grilled sausage. For special occasions, try pairing a Baltic porter with a prime rib dinner.
Best Brands of Porter Beer
There are many trusted brands of porter beer available, including specialty seasonal beers that are released in late autumn and winter. Some of the best brands to look out for include:
- Fuller's London Porter
- Anchor Porter
- Founders Porter
- Bell's Porter
- Deschutes Black Butte Porter
- Stone Smoked Porter
These brands offer a range of porter styles, including smoked porter options. Whether you're looking for a classic English brown porter or a bold American imperial porter, you're sure to find a brand that suits your taste.
In Conclusion
Smoked porter beer is a dark and flavorful brew that adds a unique smoky twist to the traditional porter style. With its deep ruby brown to black color, chocolate and caramel flavors, and well-balanced characteristics, smoked porters are a favorite among beer enthusiasts. Whether you prefer an English brown porter, a robust American porter, or a smoky variation, there is a wide range of options to choose from. Pair your smoked porter beer with grilled meats, cheeses, or desserts for a delightful culinary experience. Explore different brands and styles to find your perfect smoked porter beer.
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