When winter’s chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a rich, hearty stout to warm you up and provide comfort on those cold, frosty evenings. Whether you’re curling up by the fire or enjoying a cozy gathering with friends, a stout offers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and warmth. With so many options on the market, we’ve handpicked the 7 best stouts that stand out this season. Each one has its unique character, making it perfect for winter indulgence.
1. Founders Brewing Co. – KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout)
Founders KBS is a beloved winter stout that has earned its place in the hearts of many beer enthusiasts. Known for its robust coffee, chocolate, and bourbon barrel-aged flavors, this stout offers a complex and satisfying drinking experience. The use of imperial stout brewing techniques results in a creamy, full-bodied brew that pairs exceptionally well with winter activities.
This Kentucky Breakfast Stout is aged in bourbon barrels, which imparts a rich, oaky flavor that blends perfectly with its coffee and chocolate notes. It has a high ABV of 12%, making it a perfect choice for a winter warmer. Its dark, velvety appearance, combined with its flavors of vanilla, oak, and roasted malt, make it an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose Founders KBS?
- Bourbon barrel aging imparts deep flavors.
- Strong coffee and chocolate notes.
- High ABV for a warming sensation.
2. Guinness – Extra Stout
A classic that needs no introduction, Guinness Extra Stout is a favorite that continues to shine through the colder months. With its signature roasted malt flavor and smooth, velvety texture, Guinness offers a refined stout experience that never goes out of style. Unlike the lighter Guinness Draught, the Extra Stout has a more intense flavor profile with deeper dark chocolate and espresso notes.
This stout stands out for its bold bitterness balanced with a slight sweetness, making it a versatile choice that pairs well with a variety of hearty winter dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it with a plate of beef stew or some sharp cheddar cheese, Guinness Extra Stout provides the perfect companion to your meal.
Why Choose Guinness Extra Stout?
- Rich, roasted malt flavor.
- Perfectly balanced bitterness and sweetness.
- Smooth and velvety texture.
3. Samuel Smith’s – Oatmeal Stout
For those who enjoy a smoother, more refined stout, Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout is a top contender. This English classic is brewed with oats, which gives it a silky smooth mouthfeel that sets it apart from other stouts. It has a moderate ABV of 5%, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy a stout without the intense alcohol content.
The flavor profile is wonderfully complex, with notes of coffee, dark chocolate, and a hint of roasted nuts. The addition of oats provides a creamy texture that makes it incredibly drinkable. This stout is perfect for anyone looking for a winter brew that is rich but not overwhelming.
Why Choose Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout?
- Smooth, creamy mouthfeel from oats.
- Complex flavor profile with dark chocolate and coffee.
- Moderate ABV suitable for easy drinking.
4. Sierra Nevada – Narwhal Imperial Stout
Sierra Nevada Narwhal Imperial Stout is a powerful, bold stout that will keep you warm even in the harshest winter conditions. With an impressive 10.2% ABV, this imperial stout packs a punch while delivering a rich blend of roasted malt, coffee, and dark chocolate flavors. It also has a subtle hint of licorice and molasses, which rounds out its complex profile.
The smooth mouthfeel and full-bodied nature of the Narwhal make it an excellent choice for sipping slowly by the fire. This stout’s flavor evolves as it warms, offering a delightful experience from the first sip to the last drop.
Why Choose Sierra Nevada Narwhal?
- High ABV for a warming, rich experience.
- Complex flavors of coffee, chocolate, licorice, and molasses.
- Smooth, full-bodied mouthfeel.
5. The Bruery – Black Tuesday
If you’re looking for a stout that goes above and beyond in complexity, The Bruery’s Black Tuesday is a must-try. This bourbon barrel-aged imperial stout boasts an impressive 19.2% ABV, making it one of the most potent stouts on the market. It is brewed with an abundance of dark fruit, vanilla, oak, and bourbon flavors, giving it a luxurious, decadent character.
With its rich, syrupy texture and bold flavors, Black Tuesday is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night. It’s a stout that is designed to be savored slowly, allowing the flavors to unfold over time. It pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts or a rich cheese plate.
Why Choose The Bruery Black Tuesday?
- Bourbon barrel aging imparts complex flavors.
- Exceptionally high ABV for a powerful stout.
- Luxurious mouthfeel with dark fruits and vanilla.
6. Deschutes – The Abyss
For those who love a stout with layers of flavor, Deschutes The Abyss is a stellar choice. This imperial stout is brewed with a unique combination of molasses, licorice, and cherry bark, which adds an intriguing depth to its flavor. The 10.8% ABV provides a gentle warming effect that makes it perfect for a chilly evening.
The Abyss is rich and complex, with prominent flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and dark fruits. The addition of oak barrels for aging brings out a smoky, earthy finish, making each sip an experience in itself. This stout pairs beautifully with charcuterie boards or grilled meats.
Why Choose Deschutes The Abyss?
- Unique flavor blend of molasses, licorice, and cherry bark.
- Complex profile with dark chocolate, coffee, and dark fruits.
- Aged in oak barrels for a smoky finish.
7. North Coast – Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout
No list of the best stouts would be complete without mentioning North Coast Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout. This award-winning stout is a classic example of the Russian imperial style, offering bold, dark flavors of roasted malt, espresso, and dark chocolate. With a hefty 9% ABV, it’s a great winter warmer for those who enjoy a strong, full-bodied stout.
Old Rasputin is known for its intense malt character and smooth, creamy finish. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a robust stout that doesn’t shy away from strong, intense flavors. Whether paired with rich meats or decadent desserts, this stout delivers an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose North Coast Old Rasputin?
- Strong, intense malt flavors with espresso and dark chocolate.
- High ABV for a warming, full-bodied stout.
- Creamy finish that rounds out the experience.
The Perfect Stout for Every Winter Occasion
Finding the perfect stout for your winter adventures is all about knowing what you enjoy. Whether you prefer the robust bitterness of a classic stout or the complexity of a barrel-aged imperial stout, the options above offer a diverse range of flavors and styles that can satisfy any palate. From Founders KBS to North Coast Old Rasputin, these stouts will keep you warm and cozy all season long.
Next time you need a stout to sip on while watching the snow fall outside or to enjoy with your winter meals, reach for one of these top stouts. You won’t regret it!
also read: The 5 Best Rye Whiskeys Under $30, According to Bartenders