Guinness: A Brewing Renaissance in America
In its 266th anniversary of brewing, Guinness has emerged as the fastest-growing imported beer in the United States, particularly as St. Patrick’s Day festivities approach. This iconic Irish beer, renowned since before the American Revolution, is witnessing a remarkable revival in popularity across the country.
Emerging Trends in Beer Culture
“People are finding this beer for the first time, or, in some cases, rediscovering it,” remarked Ryan Wagner, Guinness National Ambassador. “You’re not just finding it in Irish pubs. Now it’s in sports bars, at the beach, in coolers being taken to tailgates.”
A significant factor contributing to this resurgence is the influence of social media. The viral “Splitting the G” challenge has caught the attention of many, with celebrities like Ed Sheeran and Niall Horan participating by taking sips of Guinness and skillfully aiming for the gap in the letter “G” of the brand’s logo.
Addressing Perceptions of Guinness
For those new to Guinness and apprehensive about its dark appearance, Wagner provides reassurance: “The first thing we would tell someone is don’t let the color scare you away. It’s light in body. It’s a little roasty, a little toasty, incredibly drinkable, and something that’s built around occasions, bringing people together.”
A Brew with a Rich Legacy
Guinness has a brewing heritage that dates back to 1759 in Dublin. Today, the brewery produces approximately 3.5 million pints daily for distribution worldwide. Enthusiasts of Guinness emphasize a unique pouring technique known as the “perfect pour,” a method that directly influences the beer’s flavor and mouthfeel.
This dedication to the craft has inspired initiatives like New York State of Pint, where a group of anonymous raters evaluates New York City’s best pints of Guinness based on several factors, including taste, pour quality, glassware, temperature, and bar ambiance. “We’re not looking for favorable treatment,” one rater noted. “We really just want to rate the Guinness and spread the word about good Guinness in the city.”
The Future of Guinness in America
Looking ahead, Wagner expresses optimism about Guinness’s trajectory. “More than ever before, we value our time together. And the more that we find excuses to bring people together, whether that’s a massive sporting event or just a couple of buddies sitting at the bar, Guinness draught stout is always going to be a part of those conversations.”
