A new hybrid pint of Guinness is causing a stir in pubs across the UK, offering a lighter alternative to the beloved classic. The so-called 60/40 pint blends the original stout with its non-alcoholic counterpart, Guinness 0.0.
What is the 60/40 Guinness?
The innovation involves mixing 60% Guinness 0.0 with 40% of the original Guinness. This specific ratio significantly reduces the alcohol content of the drink. The Alcohol By Volume (ABV) drops from the standard 4.2 per cent to approximately 1.7 per cent, creating a lower-alcohol option for consumers. Despite the mix, the iconic two-stage pour associated with a perfect pint of Guinness is maintained, with the Guinness 0.0 being poured first.
Public Reaction: A Nation Divided
Since its introduction, the public's response to the 60/40 pint has been sharply split. Some purists have been vocal in their criticism, with one detractor branding the creation nonsense and another going so far as to say it should be illegal. Conversely, other drinkers have welcomed the innovation, appreciating the option for a pint with a lighter alcohol content, especially during extended social sessions over the Christmas period.
The Rise of No and Low Alcohol Choices
The launch of the 60/40 drink is not an isolated event. It aligns perfectly with a clear and growing consumer trend, particularly among young adults, who are increasingly opting for no and low alcohol products. This move by Diageo, the parent company of Guinness, signals a strategic adaptation to shifting market demands, offering a compromise for those not ready to commit to a fully non-alcoholic beer but seeking to moderate their intake.
