The Founder's Brewing Company, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, named this particular brew the “Breakfast Stout” for a specific reason. While it may not be an essential part of a balanced breakfast, the name reflects the ingredients used in its creation. The brewers at Founder's incorporated brewed Kona and Sumatra coffees along with flaked oats, which are classic elements often found in breakfast dishes.
When thinking about the name “Breakfast Stout,” it's important to consider the intention behind it. The brewers wanted to create a beer that would evoke the cozy and comforting feeling of enjoying a hearty breakfast. They wanted to capture the essence of starting your day off right, with the familiar aromas and flavors that you might associate with a morning meal.
By using brewed Kona and Sumatra coffees, the brewers infused the beer with the rich, robust flavors of these popular breakfast beverages. Coffee is often the go-to morning pick-me-up for many people, and incorporating it into the stout adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Additionally, the inclusion of flaked oats further enhances the breakfast theme of this beer. Oats are often used in breakfast dishes like oatmeal or granola because they provide a satisfying, creamy texture and a nutty flavor. In the case of the Breakfast Stout, the flaked oats contribute a smooth, velvety mouthfeel and a subtle sweetness.
The choice to name this beer the Breakfast Stout also serves as a nod to the versatility of stouts as a beer style. Traditionally, stouts are characterized by their dark color, roasted malt flavors, and often high alcohol content. They are typically associated with colder weather and cozy evenings by the fireplace. However, Founder's Brewing Company wanted to challenge this perception and show that stouts can be enjoyed at any time of day, even in the morning.
In my personal experience, I have found that the Breakfast Stout is a fantastic beer to enjoy with brunch. Its coffee notes complement dishes like eggs benedict or pancakes, adding an extra layer of richness to the meal. The smooth texture and balanced flavors make it a versatile beer that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of breakfast foods.
To summarize, the Founder's Brewing Company named their beer the Breakfast Stout because it is made with brewed Kona and Sumatra coffees and flaked oats, which are classic breakfast ingredients. The name captures the essence of a hearty breakfast and reflects the intention of creating a beer that can be enjoyed at any time of day.