On the 24th September, it was 299 years since Arthur Guinness was born. In 1759, he signed a 9,000-year lease for the St. James’s Gate Brewery. At the time, it was a small brewery with big ambitions. Guinness originally brewed several styles of beer, but it was the dark, rich, and robust stout that captured the world’s attention. By the 19th century, Guinness had become one of the largest breweries in the world, famous for its distinctive flavour — characterised by roasted barley, a creamy texture, and a slight bitterness balanced by malty sweetness.
Guinness’ deep flavours of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee notes, bring a unique complexity to cocktails. So, to celebrate, here are a few ideas on how to incorporate Guinness into your cocktails:
Guinness Black Velvet
One of the simplest and most famous Guinness cocktails, the Black Velvet, is a luxurious mix of Guinness and Champagne. The rich stout balances the crisp, bubbly champagne, creating a smooth, velvety drink that’s perfect for celebrations. To make it, gently pour Guinness into a glass, then top with chilled champagne, being careful to maintain the layers.
Guinness Espresso Martini
This twist on the classic espresso martini uses Guinness to complement the coffee flavours. The stout’s malty richness enhances the coffee’s bitterness, making this drink smooth yet bold. Simply mix vodka, coffee liqueur, and a shot of espresso, then top with a splash of Guinness for a frothy finish.
Guinness Bloody Mary
Give the traditional Bloody Mary a stouty makeover by adding a splash of Guinness. Its earthy notes pair beautifully with the spiciness of the tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. This version offers a deeper, richer version of the brunch staple.
Irish Slammer
A fun party drink, the Irish Slammer combines a shot of Irish whiskey and Baileys dropped into a pint of Guinness. Drink it quickly before the cream curdles! It’s a drink that’s as much about the experience as the taste — both intense and playful.
Guinness Chocolate Milkshake
For those with a sweet tooth, Guinness pairs wonderfully with dessert flavours. Blend Guinness with vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, and a splash of Irish cream liqueur for an indulgent boozy milkshake that feels like a grown-up dessert.
