Things you didn't know about beer: Porter and Stout

Emerson's London Porter settling

In light of our new nitro pump installation this week, pouring you delicious Emerson's Porter, here's some interesting info about beer for your delectation. Our theme today - Porter and Stout.

• Have you every wondered when drinking a Stout or Porter, poured on nitrous, why it looks like some of the bubbles are sinking? That's because they are! Bubbles in the centre of the pint are rising and this creates a wee current in the glass. As the bubbles in the centre rise so the liquid on the outside of the glass is dragged downwards, taking the air bubbles down with it.

• The origins of Porter are in London in the 1720s. It became really popular due to it's strong flavour; the fact it took longer to spoil and fact that the alcohol content increased with age. London pumped out Porter over the next few decades with large amounts being exported to Ireland. Porter is often regarded to be one of the world's first commercial beer styles.

• The name Porter is thought to come from the river and street porters who favoured this style of beer to drink.

• Guinness Extra Stout was originally named "Extra Superior Porter" changing to Extra Stout in 1840. 

• The difference between a Porter and a Stout? Well originally it was a reference to the strength of the beer. A particularly strong Porter would've been called to an "Extra Porter", a "Double Porter" or a "Stout Porter". Eventually the name "Stout Porter" was just shortened to Stout. Today the differences aren't really so distinct with some beer enthusiasts arguing that there's not really much difference at all. Whilst others saying the the malts should differ or Porter should be lighter (as in style as opposed to strength).