Guinness vs. Guinness 0.0: A Taste Test of the Classic Stout and Its Alcohol-Free Twin
For stout lovers, Guinness isn’t just a beer—it’s a tradition. That deep, dark color, the creamy head, the rich, roasted flavour—it’s unmistakable. It’s been setting the bar for stouts around the world for centuries.
Now, Guinness has taken a bold step into the alcohol-free world with Guinness 0.0, promising the same great taste without the buzz. But does it really measure up? Let’s dive into the flavours, textures, and the best times to enjoy each version.
The Guinness Legacy: Why People Love It
Since 1759, Guinness has been a staple in pubs and homes worldwide. Made with roasted barley, hops, water, and yeast, its perfect balance of bitter and sweet has made it an icon.
Guinness 0.0 is their way of keeping the tradition alive while catering to those who want to skip the alcohol—whether for health reasons, lifestyle choices, or just because.
What’s Inside? Ingredients & Brewing
Guinness gets its signature taste from carefully chosen ingredients and a unique brewing process. Part of the beer is aged and then blended back in, creating that deep, complex flavor we all love.
Guinness 0.0 follows the exact same process but with an extra step: a cold filtration method that removes the alcohol while keeping the flavor intact. This ensures that Guinness 0.0 stays as close to the original as possible.
Taste and Texture: Can You Tell the Difference?
The big question: does Guinness 0.0 really taste like the original? Here’s a side-by-side look:
- Classic Guinness: Smooth and creamy with deep malt flavors, notes of coffee and chocolate, and a slight bitterness that lingers. The signature thick, foamy head completes the experience.
- Guinness 0.0: Almost identical. The roasted barley, coffee hints, and creamy texture are all there. Some might notice a tiny difference in depth, but for an alcohol-free beer, it’s impressively close.
For most people, the difference is barely noticeable—making Guinness 0.0 a solid alternative for stout fans who want to skip the alcohol.
Nutrition: How Do They Compare?
If you’re watching your diet, Guinness 0.0 has some perks:
- Fewer Calories: Guinness 0.0 has fewer calories than the classic version, making it a great choice if you’re keeping an eye on your intake.
- Lower Carbs & Sugar: Both versions are pretty low in sugar, but Guinness 0.0 has slightly fewer carbs since the alcohol is removed.
- Nutrients Stay Intact: Guinness contains small amounts of iron and antioxidants from barley and hops. Guinness 0.0 keeps most of these benefits while cutting out the alcohol.
When to Drink Each One
Both versions have their perfect moments:
- Classic Guinness: Ideal for pub nights, celebrations, and pairing with hearty meals like stews, roasted meats, and cheese.
- Guinness 0.0: Great for weekday evenings, work lunches, post-gym refreshment, or any time you want a Guinness without the effects of alcohol. Also perfect for designated drivers and those cutting back on drinking.
With both options available, Guinness makes sure there’s a stout for every occasion.
What Fans Are Saying
People were skeptical at first, but Guinness 0.0 has been met with enthusiasm. Longtime Guinness drinkers are impressed by how well it mimics the original, and health-conscious consumers love having a high-quality non-alcoholic option.
While traditionalists might notice minor differences, the overall response has been overwhelmingly positive—Guinness 0.0 is setting a new standard for alcohol-free beer.
The Final Verdict: Which One’s for You?
It all comes down to personal preference. If you love the full experience, classic Guinness is unbeatable. But if you’re looking for a nearly identical taste without the alcohol, Guinness 0.0 is an excellent choice.
With both versions now widely available, there’s a Guinness for every moment. So whether you go classic or alcohol-free, you’re still getting that smooth, satisfying stout experience. Cheers to good times—whichever way you pour it!
Written by: The N.A.C. Team.
