What is Nitro porter?

Answered by Randall Whitlock

Nitro porter is a style of that is known for its smooth and creamy texture, thanks to the addition of nitrogen gas during the process. It is a variation of the traditional porter style, which is characterized by its dark color and rich, roasted flavors.

The use of nitrogen gas in brewing is what sets nitro porter apart from other beers. When nitrogen is added to the beer, it creates smaller bubbles compared to carbonation from carbon dioxide. This results in a velvety mouthfeel and a creamy head that lasts longer. The nitrogen also enhances the flavors of the beer, allowing the roasted and chocolate notes to shine through.

One of the most famous examples of a nitro porter is Guinness Draught. This iconic beer is known for its smooth and creamy texture, which is achieved through a combination of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The use of nitrogen in Guinness Draught gives it a distinctively silky mouthfeel and a cascading effect when poured from the tap.

Nitro porters are often lower in content compared to their non-nitro counterparts, making them more sessionable and easy to drink. This makes them a popular choice for those who enjoy dark beers but prefer a lighter option in terms of alcohol strength.

The process of brewing a nitro porter involves several steps to achieve the desired texture and flavor. First, the beer is brewed using a combination of roasted malts, which impart the dark color and rich flavors. After fermentation, the beer is transferred to a keg or can, where it is then infused with nitrogen gas.

To serve a nitro porter, it is typically poured from a tap or can with a specially designed nitrogen widget. This widget releases the nitrogen gas into the beer as it is poured, creating the desired creamy texture and cascading effect. The result is a beer that is not only visually appealing but also has a smooth and luxurious mouthfeel.

A nitro porter is a style of beer that is known for its smooth and creamy texture, achieved through the addition of nitrogen gas during the brewing process. It is a sessionable alternative to big beer macro stouts, offering a lower alcohol content while still delivering the rich flavors and dark color associated with porters. The use of nitrogen enhances the mouthfeel and allows the roasted malt and chocolate notes to shine through. So, if you're looking for a truly enjoyable and effortlessly drinkable dark beer, give a nitro porter a try!