There is a lot that could be said about the inception of Oyster Stout. The history seems a little bit cloudy, but it seems plausible that the origin of using oysters in Stout was from the clarifying nature of their shells when used as an ingredient. Fish swim bladder is a very common additive to modern beers, and it makes sense that this may have began with oysters.

Whether this is the case or not, some breweries say that the name is merely a serving suggestion, and keep their beer oyster-free. The Porterhouse, however, have named this beer after an ingredient rather than a food pairing.

First Impressions:

No matter what the Porterhouse beer you are having from a bottle, your first impression is always going to be based on the cap.

Whether you find this cool, convenient or frustrating, you can’t deny that it is a unique touch. They certainly seem simpler than conventional bottle caps, but I have a very poor record of getting them open.

Once poured, this beer is a almost pure black, but there are hints of red as the light passes through. The head is off white, even tan, foamy, and gone in a heartbeat.

There is a very sweet aroma from this beer, almost like nectar. It is a very flowery smell with very light coffee notes.

Second Impressions:

Even though the head dissipates very quickly, you can follow it down the edge of the glass, as there is some lacing in this brew.

The flavour of this beer is unsurprisingly complex. There is a floral sweetness to it, and a little bitterness, which comes further to the front as the beer warms.

It is very full bodied, and well carbonated, and it goes down very easily. At no point do I feel that there is a fishy note to it.

Final Impressions:

Porterhouse Oyster Stout was one of the first movements I made towards drinking something a little less mainstream, visitting their Templebar pub when I was in college. The leap from Guinness, to Plain Porter, to Oyster Stout almost felt a little “in for a penny…”.

It isn’t nostalgia that makes this beer taste so great. It’s the blood, sweat, tears and (more off putting than those for many people) the oysters that make this an absolute essential beer to put on to your list.