Guinness Foreign Extra Stout is a Foreign Export Stout that’s brewed by Guinness Ltd., and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a nonic pint glass from a 330 ml bottle.

Packaging art for the Guinness Foreign Extra Stout by Guinness Ltd.

What You Need to Know

The Foreign Extra Stout dates back to the beginning of the 19th century when Guinness was brewing this beer as their West India Porter. This stout inherited its recipe and is loaded with extra hops that were necessary back in the day for long voyages in ships’ holds. The result is a robust and complex palate. So how was it? Let’s get to the review.

Appearance

The stout pours an opaque mahogany hue that shows just hint of red-orange at the edges when held to the light. The ale is topped by a generous cap of puffy, pock-marked foam that shows excellent retention. The head’s reduction leaves behind gobs of sticky residue.

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Aroma

The aromatics are strong with a mild roast, a touch of biscuit, and a hint of dark fruit.

Fruit and caramel flavors begin, smoky notes and a vibrant bitterness follow. Where extra hops and a stronger alcohol percentage were once used to preserve the beer, allowing it to survive and thrive during long sea voyages, now they yield its bold taste and unique flavor profile.

Label art for the Guinness Foreign Extra Stout by Guinness Ltd.

Flavor

The palate is led by a taste of browned bread that transitions through a more pronounced roast that’s somewhat smoky. Floral and peppery hops add more bitterness and then the tasting mellows out with sweet notes of caramel and dark fruit.

Mouthfeel

The feel has a smooth draw that takes a light grain and finishes dryly. The body is full with moderate with less-than-moderate carbonation.

Overall

The Guinness Foreign Extra Stout presents quite nicely and its aroma is strong and enticing. The aroma fades before the session finishes but is otherwise a plus. The palate is flavorful and nicely complex with its blend of roast, fruit, and hops. The feel is perfect for this brew and nicely supports its robust palate.

Overall, if you’re trying to decide which Guinness brew to buy, this is the one.

Recommended Pairings

Guinness recommends a Fig & Pomegranate Salad, Sweet Potato Fries, Jerk Chicken, and a Raspberry Chocolate Torte as food pairings with their Foreign Extra Stout.