Why Does Guinness Taste Better on Draught?

The Story Behind the Perfect Pint

Whether you’re a lifelong Guinness fan or trying it for the first time, there’s one question that comes up time and time again:

Why does Guinness taste so much better on draught?

The answer lies in a unique pouring process, a carefully balanced gas mix, and over 260 years of brewing expertise.

Here’s why every pint of Guinness is worth the wait.

A Pint with History

Guinness was first brewed in Dublin in 1759 by Arthur Guinness, who famously signed a 9,000-year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery.

More than two centuries later, Guinness has become one of the world’s most recognisable beers, enjoyed in over 150 countries while still proudly brewed in Dublin.

It’s All About the Nitrogen

Unlike most lagers and ales, Guinness isn’t served using carbon dioxide alone.

Instead, Guinness is poured using a mixture of approximately 75% nitrogen and 25% carbon dioxide.

Nitrogen creates much smaller bubbles than carbon dioxide, giving Guinness its signature:

• Smooth, creamy texture

• Velvety mouthfeel

• Long-lasting, dense head

• Soft, gentle carbonation

It’s this unique gas blend that makes every sip feel so distinctive.

Why the Two-Part Pour?

One of the most famous things about Guinness is that it isn’t poured all at once.

The perfect pint is poured in two stages:

1. The glass is filled to around three-quarters full.

2. The beer is left to settle, then topped up to create the perfect creamy head.

During the settling process, you’ll notice the bubbles appear to cascade down the side of the glass before the pint becomes a rich, deep ruby black.

It’s one of the most iconic sights in the beer world.

Does Waiting Really Make a Difference?

Absolutely.

Allowing Guinness to settle gives the nitrogen bubbles time to form the dense, creamy head that Guinness is famous for.

Rushing the pour can affect both the appearance and the drinking experience.

Sometimes, the best things really are worth waiting for.

What Does Guinness Actually Taste Like?

Many people assume Guinness is heavy because it’s dark in colour.

In reality, it’s surprisingly smooth and approachable.

Expect flavours of:

• Roasted coffee

• Dark chocolate

• Toasted malt

• Gentle caramel

• A subtle bitterness balanced by creamy sweetness

Even people who don’t normally drink stout are often surprised by how easy Guinness is to enjoy.

What Food Pairs Well with Guinness?

The roasted flavours make Guinness incredibly versatile with food.

It pairs beautifully with:

• Burgers

• Steak

• Beef pies

• Mature cheddar

• BBQ dishes

• Chocolate desserts

Its smooth finish also makes it an excellent choice alongside your favourite comfort food.

Did You Know?

🍺 Guinness contains around 198 calories in a standard pint—similar to many other beers.

🍺 Although it looks black, Guinness is actually a very deep ruby red when held up to the light.

🍺 The creamy head should leave a lacing pattern on the glass as you drink—it’s often seen as a sign of a well-poured pint.

🍺 Guinness is one of the most recognisable beer brands in the world, enjoyed by millions every day.

Experience the Perfect Pint at 99 & Main

We’re excited to be serving Guinness on draught at 99 & Main.

Whether you’re a dedicated Guinness drinker or you’re curious to see what all the fuss is about, we’d love to pour you the perfect pint.

Pop in, watch the famous two-part pour, and discover why Guinness has remained one of the world’s favourite stouts for more than 260.