Why is beer called porter?
Beer gets its name from the role it played in the lives of Porters in London during the 18th century. Porters were the workers who moved goods and cargo around the bustling city, and they relied on a beer that was specially brewed to fuel their hard work. This beer came to be known as porter.
The history of porter beer is closely intertwined with the rise of the Industrial Revolution in London. As the city grew and its commerce expanded, there was a need for a beer that could provide sustenance and refreshment to the laborers who powered the city's trade. Enter porter, a dark and robust beer that was specifically crafted to meet the needs of these hardworking individuals.
The name “porter” is believed to have originated from the popularity of this beer among the Porters themselves. They would often gather at the local pubs after a long day of physical labor, seeking solace and nourishment in a pint of this rich and hearty brew. The beer became synonymous with their occupation, and the name stuck.
But why was porter beer so well-suited for the Porters of London? One reason is its strength. Porter beer was typically brewed with higher alcohol content than other beers of the time, making it a more potent source of energy for those engaging in physically demanding work. The higher alcohol content also helped to preserve the beer, allowing it to be stored for longer periods without spoiling.
Another defining characteristic of porter beer is its dark color. While today we commonly associate dark beers with stouts, it's interesting to note that before 1817, there were no truly black beers. Instead, the porter beers of the time were really dark brown in color. The intense darkness of porter was achieved through the use of roasted malts, which imparted a deep hue and complex flavors to the beer.
The term “stout” actually originated as a descriptor for a stronger version of porter. Stout porter, or simply stout, referred to a beer that was even stronger and more robust than regular porter. Over time, stout evolved into a distinct beer style of its own, but its roots can still be traced back to the original porter.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of beer and diving into its fascinating history. It's truly remarkable to see how beer styles have evolved over time, and the story of porter is one that showcases the ingenuity and adaptability of brewers throughout history.
Beer is called porter because of its historical association with the Porters of London. This dark and strong beer was the fuel that powered the city's commerce, and its name became synonymous with the hardworking men who relied on it for sustenance. From its origins as a beer for laborers to its evolution into a beloved beer style, porter remains a testament to the rich and diverse world of brewing.