How To Sip A Guinness Like You've Done It A Thousand Times - Tasting Table

"Since moving to the U.S., I've learned that being Irish here gives you automatic authority on all things Guinness. And while not every drunken-leprechaun stereotype is true, we do know a thing or two about stout. In case you're wondering, the way you pour it is so important that you can tell the difference between drafts in Ireland and abroad. And there is a proper way to sip a pint of Guinness."

"In fact, the first sip is the most important of the entire drinking experience. Yes, you can simply tilt the glass back and enjoy, but in Ireland, we very much pride ourselves in our ability to "split the G". To split the G, you basically need to take a big enough first sip so that the head of the pint sits perfectly in the middle of the letter G on a branded Guinness glass."

"Some people think that taking a big gulp of a fresh pint will actually create a more pleasant drinking experience, as it helps get rid of any extra foam quickly, allowing you to really taste the beer. But after that, the way you enjoy your Guinness is really up to you. There's an old wives tale that it should be drunk in four sips, but it isn't really true."

Being Irish confers perceived authority on pouring and judging Guinness, with pouring technique affecting perceived draft quality between Ireland and abroad. The first sip is emphasized: 'split the G' requires taking a large initial sip so the head sits in the middle of the G on branded glass. There is no proof this alters taste, but it is cultural and invites judgment. Allowing Guinness to settle improves flavor, so slow drinking is encouraged. Some believe big gulps remove foam for better taste, and an old wives' tale suggests four sips, though practice varies among pub-goers and servers.

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