As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the bitterness level of a stout and a porter can vary. While stouts are generally known for their bitterness, it is not necessarily true that stouts are always more bitter than porters.
The Beer Judge Certification Program defines stouts as “very dark, roasty, bitter, creamy ales.” This suggests that stouts tend to have a pronounced bitterness, which is derived from the roasted malts used in their brewing process. The roasted malts contribute to flavors such as coffee, chocolate, and charred notes, which can result in a perceived bitterness.
On the other hand, porters are described as “substantial, malty dark ales with a complex and flavorful character.” While bitterness can be present in porters, it is not a defining characteristic of the style. Instead, porters focus more on the malt profile, showcasing flavors of caramel, toffee, and sometimes even nuttiness. The malt sweetness in porters can help balance any bitterness that may be present.
It is important to note that the bitterness of a beer is measured using the International Bitterness Unit (IBU) scale. This scale quantifies the amount of bittering compounds, primarily hop bitterness, in a beer. While stouts can have a higher IBU due to their roasted malts, there are also many examples of porters with a higher IBU, especially those featuring hop-forward variations like American or Black IPAs.
Ultimately, the bitterness of a stout or a porter can vary based on the specific recipe and brewing techniques used by the brewer. It is subjective and can also depend on individual taste preferences. Some stouts may indeed be more bitter than certain porters, but it is not a hard and fast rule.
In my personal experiences as a brewer and sommelier, I have encountered stouts that were exceptionally bitter, almost to the point of being astringent. However, I have also come across porters with a noticeable level of bitterness that pleasantly complemented their malt complexity. It is all about finding the right balance and harmony between the malt sweetness and bitterness in a beer.
The bitterness of a stout or a porter can vary, and it is not accurate to make a blanket statement that stouts are always more bitter than porters. The specific recipe, brewing techniques, and individual taste preferences all play a significant role in determining the level of bitterness in these beer styles.