A new hybrid pint of Guinness has ignited fierce debate among the stout's devoted followers across the UK and Ireland. The controversial "60/40" blend mixes traditional Guinness with its alcohol-free counterpart, creating a lower-alcohol version that has purists up in arms.
The Science Behind the 60/40 Pour
This innovative concoction combines Guinness 0.0 with the original 4.2% ABV ale to produce a beverage with approximately 1.7% alcohol content. According to reports from The Telegraph, the preparation still honours Guinness's sacred two-stage pouring method, though interestingly, the alcohol-free version is poured first in this new hybrid.
Among the early adopters is Dublin's Palmerstown House Pub, which announced the new offering on social media with enthusiasm. "Try out new '60/40' in the Palmerstown House," they wrote. "All of the Guinness character, just a little lighter! Great for when you're in the mood for a pint but with a little less alcohol!"
Public Reaction: From Outrage to Approval
The response from Guinness enthusiasts has been sharply divided. One critic declared the innovation "should be illegal," while another dismissed it as "a load of nonsense." A third commenter questioned the very purpose, asking "What is the point to this?" with others insisting on "full pints or nothing."
However, some have welcomed the development, describing it as "top-draw thinking" and drawing comparisons to Guinness Mid-Strength, a 2.8% ABV stout that underwent test marketing in Limerick between 2006 and 2008.
Marketing Genius or Sacrilege?
Darah Curran, better known to his 165,000 followers as The Guinness Guru, attributes the buzz to clever marketing. "This is obviously done to go viral and fair play because it obviously works," he told The Telegraph.
Curran acknowledged the inevitable backlash, noting that "the quick reaction from people will always be this is absolutely sacrilegious." However, he offered a pragmatic perspective: "If you want to go out and have 10 pints and only feel like you've had four, fair play. Is it ruining the classic pint of Guinness? Maybe it is, but just don't order it."
This development arrives as drinking habits undergo significant transformation. Recent data reveals that 44% of UK adults now choose no and low alcohol drinks to moderate their consumption—a substantial increase from 31% in 2018. The trend is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with half of young adults actively selecting "now and low" alcohol products.
