Glassware: Rich roasted porters deserve glassware that allows the aroma to flourish and be noticed to fully enjoy such a world class beer. A stemmed porter glass is a great choice, however a snifter or nonic pint glass will also work. The trick is to allow this beer to warm to room temperature to truly unlock all the flavors and aromas within.
Description: Founders Porter pours a deep dark brown hue with thick tan head that recedes fairly quickly and leaves behind very little lacing. The aroma explodes forth notes of chocolate and coffee with a slight hint of piney hops in the background. The bittersweet chocolate and coffee flavors hit up front followed by a pleasant yet very subtle hop bite before this wonderful porter finishes nice and dry. The medium full body and low carbonation give this beer the feeling of being a stout, but it does have a bit less of the filling feeling that stouts can give off. This smooth and easy-drinking porter is one of the best American porters available on the market.
Food-Pairing: A good porter is a versatile beer and can work with dinners and desserts all the same. Try pairing Founders Porter with roasted pig, pork chops or barbecue. The malt bill will highlight the wonderful caramel flavors given off from well-roasted pork while the subtle hop background adds an extra flavor depth to an already delicious pairing. If you are looking for something with a little less work, try pairing with a nice burger, but don’t go overboard with the toppings or you can dissipate the wonderful matchup between beef and beer. This is a fantastic beer to enjoy with classic fish and chips. There is no need to switch beers as you move to dessert. Pair this beer with chocolate cake, chocolate chip cookies, or a coffee cake. This porter is a workhorse and will add flavor to any dish without being too heavy on the palate.
The Final Word: Founders is a brewery that brews incredible beers and one should expect nothing less from it. Its porter is another incredible beer. While the St. Patrick’s holiday brings forth many thoughts of Irish stouts do not leave behind the stout’s little brother and instead enjoy some great porters. There are few better than Founders Porter. While the popularity explosion in the craft beer realm with IPAs seems to have left many fantastic styles behind in the minds of the casual beer drinker, porters should never be forgotten, especially when they are this good. The body and fullness walk a thin line between porters and stouts, but walks it with confidence. If you have not had this beer, it is an absolute must have for all fans of good beer!
