There are a few varieties of this ale type. Lots of highly roasted malts are used in brewing stouts giving them their dark color and rich roasted chocolate/coffee flavor. Contrary to popular belief, the dry Irish stouts,like Guinness, weigh in at only 4%abv and 125 calories per 12 oz serving. It is easy to have a few at the pub and still get yourself home. Oatmeal stouts are very smooth as a result of the oats added as a sweetener. Milk stout uses lactose to achieve the same effect. Imperial stouts are much stronger for the same reason IPAs are stronger than a pale ale. Hops and an increased alcohol content help the beer survive its long journey, this time to Imperial Russia.
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