How to Serve and Enjoy Guinness

Pouring the Perfect Glass of Guinness

Choose the right glass. Although it may seem that any glass will do, to enjoy a truly perfect glass of Guinness you must use a tulip glass. The shape of a tulip glass is perfect for allowing the nitrogen bubbles to circulate from the bottom and back up to the top. Although any size will do, a 16oz glass, otherwise known as a pint, is generally agreed upon as the classic size for the drink.

Pour the drink into the glass at a 45 degree angle. Pour until the glass is about ¾ of the way full, in one slow smooth pour. Using the 45 degree angle keeps the Guinness from frothing and allows for a better head. Be sure to keep from pouring straight down, as it will create a fisheye in the top of the foam and large unwanted bubbles

Let the beer rest. After pouring, let the Guinness set for a minute or two so the head can develop. The nitrogen bubbles become distressed by the movement of the pour, and will gather in a creamy foam at the top of the drink when allowed time to settle.

Top the Guinness off. Fill the glass the rest of the way up, so that a dome effect is created at the top of the glass.

Enjoy your Guinness. Although good on its own, try the beer paired with seafood for a delicious combination.

Pouring a Half and Half or Double Pour

In Ireland, a half and half is a combination of Guinness draught and Harp or Smithwick's Ale, with the Guinness in a layer on top.

Take a bottle of pale ale or lager and fill the glass halfway. Pour rather vigorously so as to help stimulate the head of the “tan” part of the drink.

Arrange a spoon over the mouth of the glass. The spoon should be held upside down, with the handle resting against the rim and the mouth-piece touching the opposite inner side of the glass. If desired, special “black and tan” spoons are available for purchase and designed specifically for this drink.

Slowly pour cold Guinness over the spoon. You want the Guinness to settle gently over the top of the “tan,” so take your time to get the perfect pour. This will also allow for the best head to form.

Drink and enjoy! For a unique twist on a classic black and tan, try a “black adder.” To create this, use the same process as explained above, but substitute the light ale with cider.

Incorporating Guinness into Food Recipes

Make beef with Guinness. The combination of beef, vegetables, and a rich Guinness sauce is an appetizing variation of your favorite stew.

Cook mussels in Guinness. Combine sauteed vegetables, fresh cream, and Guinness for a delicious preparation of mussels.

Bake bread with Guinness. For a hearty bread recipe, add Guinness, black treacle, and oatmeal to your ingredients list. Best served alongside mussels or beef cooked in Guinness.