When it comes to the world of beer, few names are as iconic as Guinness. The Irish brewer has been perfecting its craft for over 260 years, and its signature stout has become a staple in pubs and bars around the globe. However, many beer enthusiasts have noticed that there are two distinct types of Guinness: Guinness and Guinness Draught. While they may seem like the same thing, there are some key differences between these two brews.
A Brief History of Guinness
Before we dive into the differences between Guinness and Guinness Draught, it’s worth taking a brief look at the history of the company. Guinness was founded in 1759 by Arthur Guinness, who signed a 9,000-year lease on a dilapidated brewery in Dublin, Ireland. Over the years, the company has remained committed to using only the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods to create its signature stout.
The Brewing Process
So, what makes Guinness so unique? The answer lies in the brewing process. Guinness is made from a combination of roasted unmalted barley, malted barley, and hops. The roasted barley gives the beer its distinctive dark color and rich flavor, while the malted barley adds a smooth, creamy texture. The hops, meanwhile, provide a subtle bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the malt.
One of the key factors that sets Guinness apart from other beers is its use of a nitrogen-carbon dioxide gas mix. This unique blend of gases gives Guinness its characteristic creamy head and smooth, velvety texture.
Guinness vs Guinness Draught: What’s the Difference?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Guinness, let’s talk about the difference between Guinness and Guinness Draught. The main distinction between these two brews lies in the way they are packaged and served.
Guinness is the original, bottled version of the beer. It’s brewed and packaged in the same way that it has been for centuries, with a focus on preserving the traditional flavor and character of the beer. Guinness is available in bottles, cans, and kegs, and can be found in stores and pubs around the world.
Guinness Draught, on the other hand, is a specially designed version of the beer that is brewed specifically for draught dispensing. It’s packaged in kegs and served through a unique dispensing system that uses a combination of nitrogen and carbon dioxide to create the perfect pour.
The Perfect Pour
The perfect pour is a crucial part of the Guinness experience, and it’s something that sets Guinness Draught apart from the bottled version. When Guinness Draught is poured correctly, it should have a smooth, creamy head and a rich, velvety texture. The beer should be poured at an angle, allowing the nitrogen to mix with the beer and create a smooth, cascading effect.
To achieve the perfect pour, Guinness has developed a specialized dispensing system that uses a combination of nitrogen and carbon dioxide to create the ideal gas mix. This system is designed to preserve the delicate balance of flavors and textures that make Guinness so unique.
Taste and Texture
So, how do Guinness and Guinness Draught compare in terms of taste and texture? The answer is that they are remarkably similar, with a few subtle differences.
Guinness has a rich, smooth flavor with notes of roasted barley, coffee, and chocolate. The beer has a creamy texture and a smooth, velvety head that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Guinness Draught, on the other hand, has a slightly more pronounced flavor profile, with a deeper, richer taste that is both complex and nuanced. The beer has a smooth, creamy texture and a rich, velvety head that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Head-to-Head Comparison
In terms of head-to-head comparison, Guinness and Guinness Draught are remarkably similar. Both beers have a rich, smooth flavor and a creamy texture, with a smooth, velvety head that is both refreshing and satisfying.
However, there are a few subtle differences between the two beers. Guinness Draught has a slightly more pronounced flavor profile, with a deeper, richer taste that is both complex and nuanced. The beer also has a slightly more pronounced head, with a richer, creamier texture that is both refreshing and satisfying.
| Characteristics | Guinness | Guinness Draught |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Rich, smooth flavor with notes of roasted barley, coffee, and chocolate | Slightly more pronounced flavor profile, with a deeper, richer taste that is both complex and nuanced |
| Texture | Creamy texture and a smooth, velvety head | Smooth, creamy texture and a rich, velvety head |
| Dispensing Method | Bottled, canned, or kegged | Specially designed for draught dispensing, using a unique gas mix and dispensing system |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Guinness and Guinness Draught may seem like the same thing, there are some key differences between these two brews. Guinness is the original, bottled version of the beer, while Guinness Draught is a specially designed version that is brewed specifically for draught dispensing.
Both beers have a rich, smooth flavor and a creamy texture, with a smooth, velvety head that is both refreshing and satisfying. However, Guinness Draught has a slightly more pronounced flavor profile and a richer, creamier head that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Whether you prefer the traditional, bottled version of Guinness or the specially designed Guinness Draught, one thing is certain: both beers are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the choice between Guinness and Guinness Draught comes down to personal preference. If you prefer the traditional, bottled version of the beer, then Guinness is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a unique and authentic draught experience, then Guinness Draught is the perfect choice.
Either way, you can’t go wrong with Guinness. With its rich, smooth flavor and creamy texture, this iconic beer is sure to please even the most discerning palate. So why not give it a try? Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Guinness is a beer that is sure to delight.
What is the main difference between Guinness and Guinness Draught?
The main difference between Guinness and Guinness Draught lies in their brewing process and packaging. Guinness is a nitrogenated beer that is brewed and then packaged in bottles or cans, while Guinness Draught is also a nitrogenated beer but is brewed and then packaged in kegs. This difference in packaging affects the way the beer is dispensed and ultimately, the drinking experience.
The unique dispensing system of Guinness Draught, which involves a mix of nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases, creates the distinctive cascading effect when the beer is poured. This is not possible with bottled or canned Guinness, which relies on a different type of gas to create the head. As a result, Guinness Draught is often preferred by those who enjoy the ritual of watching their beer being poured and the unique sensory experience that comes with it.
Is Guinness Draught stronger than Guinness?
No, Guinness Draught is not stronger than Guinness. Both Guinness and Guinness Draught have an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 4.2%, which is relatively low compared to other beers. The strength of the beer is determined by the brewing process, not by the packaging or dispensing method. Therefore, whether you choose Guinness or Guinness Draught, you can expect the same level of alcohol content.
It’s worth noting that some variations of Guinness, such as Guinness Extra Stout, may have a slightly higher ABV than the standard Guinness. However, these variations are not directly related to Guinness Draught, which is simply a different way of packaging and dispensing the same beer.
Can I get the same taste from Guinness as I do from Guinness Draught?
While Guinness and Guinness Draught are brewed to the same recipe, the taste can be slightly different due to the packaging and dispensing method. Guinness Draught, with its unique gas mix and dispensing system, can create a smoother, creamier texture and a more pronounced roasted flavor. Bottled or canned Guinness, on the other hand, may have a slightly more bitter taste and a less creamy texture.
That being said, the taste difference between Guinness and Guinness Draught is relatively subtle, and many people may not notice a significant difference. If you’re looking for a more authentic Guinness experience, Guinness Draught may be the better choice. However, if you prefer the convenience of bottled or canned beer, Guinness is still a great option.
Is Guinness Draught only available in pubs?
No, Guinness Draught is not only available in pubs. While it’s true that Guinness Draught is often associated with traditional Irish pubs, it’s also available in many other settings, such as restaurants, bars, and even some supermarkets. In recent years, Guinness has introduced a range of products that allow consumers to enjoy Guinness Draught at home, such as the Guinness Draught can and the Guinness Surger.
These products use advanced technology to recreate the unique dispensing experience of Guinness Draught in the comfort of your own home. However, it’s worth noting that the experience may not be exactly the same as enjoying a pint of Guinness Draught in a pub, where the beer is typically poured by a trained bartender using a specialized dispensing system.
How do I store Guinness and Guinness Draught?
Guinness and Guinness Draught should be stored in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and quality. Bottled or canned Guinness can be stored in a refrigerator or a cool cupboard, while Guinness Draught kegs should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
It’s also important to note that Guinness Draught kegs have a limited shelf life and should be consumed within a certain timeframe (usually several weeks) to ensure optimal flavor and quality. Bottled or canned Guinness, on the other hand, can be stored for longer periods of time, but it’s still best to consume it within a few months of opening.
Can I pour Guinness Draught at home?
Yes, you can pour Guinness Draught at home, but it requires some practice and patience to get it right. Guinness has introduced a range of products that allow consumers to enjoy Guinness Draught at home, such as the Guinness Draught can and the Guinness Surger. These products use advanced technology to recreate the unique dispensing experience of Guinness Draught.
To pour Guinness Draught at home, you’ll need to follow the instructions provided with the product and use the correct pouring technique. This typically involves tilting the glass at an angle, opening the can or activating the Surger, and allowing the beer to flow slowly into the glass. With a bit of practice, you can create a perfect pint of Guinness Draught in the comfort of your own home.
Is Guinness Draught worth the extra cost?
Whether or not Guinness Draught is worth the extra cost is a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking for a unique and authentic Guinness experience, Guinness Draught may be worth the extra cost. The distinctive cascading effect, smooth texture, and rich flavor of Guinness Draught make it a special treat for many beer enthusiasts.
However, if you’re on a budget or prefer the convenience of bottled or canned beer, Guinness may be a more affordable option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value the unique experience of Guinness Draught, it may be worth the extra cost. But if you’re looking for a more affordable option, Guinness is still a great choice.