As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and comparing many different stouts, including both Brewdog Black Heart and Guinness. While both are stouts, they do have some notable differences in flavor and character.
First and foremost, let's talk about the ABV (alcohol by volume). Brewdog Black Heart has a slightly lower ABV of 4.1% compared to Guinness, which typically sits around 4.2%. While this may not seem like a significant difference, it can affect the overall perception of the beer.
In terms of appearance, both stouts pour dark and opaque, as you would expect from this style. However, Guinness is known for its iconic cascading effect when poured properly, resulting in a creamy and thick head. On the other hand, Brewdog Black Heart may not have the same cascading effect, but it still forms a decent tan head that lingers for a while.
Now, let's move on to the aroma and taste. Brewdog Black Heart is brewed with Simcoe hops, roasted barley, and chocolate malt, which gives it a distinct aroma of coffee and chocolate. The roasted barley adds a slightly bitter note, while the chocolate malt brings in a touch of sweetness. It's a well-balanced combination of flavors that is both rich and enticing.
On the other hand, Guinness is known for its smooth and velvety mouthfeel. It has a more subtle aroma with hints of roasted malt and a touch of caramel. The taste is also smooth and malty, with a slight bitterness that is characteristic of Guinness. It's a classic stout flavor that is familiar and comforting.
In terms of mouthfeel, both stouts have a medium body, but Guinness tends to feel slightly lighter and smoother on the palate. This could be attributed to the use of nitrogen in Guinness, which creates smaller bubbles and a creamier texture.
While both stouts are delicious in their own right, I personally find Brewdog Black Heart to be more flavorsome than Guinness. The combination of Simcoe hops, roasted barley, and chocolate malt in Black Heart gives it a more complex flavor profile with layers of coffee, chocolate, and caramel. It's a stout that demands attention and keeps you coming back for more.
While Brewdog Black Heart and Guinness are both stouts, they do have some distinct differences in flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel. Brewdog Black Heart stands out with its flavorful combination of hops and malts, while Guinness is known for its smooth and classic stout character. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but if you're looking for a stout with a bit more complexity, I would highly recommend giving Brewdog Black Heart a try.