A new hybrid version of the iconic Guinness stout has appeared in pubs, creating a significant split of opinion among its loyal followers. The controversial 60/40 pint mixes the non-alcoholic Guinness 0.0 with the classic 4.2% ABV draught to create a lower-strength beverage.
What Is The 60/40 Pint?
This innovative pour combines 60% Guinness 0.0 with 40% of the original ale, resulting in an alcohol content of roughly 1.7% ABV. This offers a substantially lighter option compared to a standard pint. Despite its modern twist, the drink is still prepared using the brand's famous two-part pour method, with the alcohol-free variant being served first.
One of the first establishments to serve this new creation is the Palmerstown House Pub in Dublin. The pub promoted the drink on its social media channels, stating it delivers "All of the Guinness character, just a little lighter!" and is perfect for those seeking the taste of a pint with less alcohol.
A Nation Divided: Public Reaction
The public's response to the 60/40 pint has been sharply polarised. While some see it as a clever innovation, others have reacted with strong criticism.
On one side, critics have been vocal in their disapproval. One social media user dismissed the creation as "a load of nonsense", while another declared it "should be illegal". The sentiment of purists was summarised by a commenter who wrote, "Full pints or nothing".
However, supporters have praised the "top-draw thinking" behind the move. Some have drawn parallels to Guinness Mid-Strength, a 2.8% ABV stout that was trialled in Limerick between 2006 and 2008.
Expert Opinion and Market Trends
Darah Curran, a prominent influencer known online as The Guinness Guru to his 165,000 followers, provided his analysis to The Telegraph. He suggested the launch is a savvy marketing tactic designed to generate online buzz.
"This is obviously done to go viral and fair play because it obviously works," Curran said. "The quick reaction from people will always be this is absolutely sacrilegious... Is it ruining the classic pint of Guinness? Maybe it is, but just don’t order it." He concluded that for most, it's an "all or nothing" choice.
This new product arrives as drinking habits shift. A recent survey highlighted that 44% of UK adults are now choosing no-and-low alcohol drinks to moderate their consumption, a notable rise from 31% in 2018. This trend is even more pronounced among younger adults, with half now opting for these "now and low" alternatives.
