7 Beers Like Guinness That Are Well Worth Sipping

# 7 Beers Like Guinness That Are Well Worth Sipping

When you think of Irish beer, the first name that probably pops into your head is *Guinness*. Known for its rich, dark stout and creamy head, Guinness has become a symbol of Irish culture and craftsmanship. However, while Guinness is undeniably iconic, there’s a world of other Irish beers that offer delicious flavors and exciting drinking experiences. If you’re looking to explore beyond the black gold, here are **7 beers like Guinness that are well worth sipping**.

## 1. **Murphy's Irish Stout**

Murphy's Irish Stout is a smooth and creamy stout hailing from Cork. With its slightly sweeter profile compared to Guinness, Murphy's offers strong coffee and chocolate notes that make it incredibly drinkable. Perfect for those who enjoy a rich texture paired with a lighter sweetness, this stout is a fantastic alternative to its more famous counterpart.

**SEO Keywords:** Murphy's Irish Stout, sweet stout, Irish stout alternatives

## 2. **Beamish Irish Stout**

Another beloved option from Cork, Beamish Irish Stout is characterized by its robust coffee flavors and lingering bitterness. This beer is less popular internationally but beloved by locals, offering a unique taste experience filled with hints of roasted malt and dark chocolate. Its medium body makes it ideal for both casual sipping and food pairings.

**SEO Keywords:** Beamish Irish Stout, Irish beer reviews, local beers of Ireland

## 3. **O'Hara's Irish Red Ale**

If you’re interested in something lighter but still rich in flavor, O'Hara's Irish Red Ale is a perfect choice. With its vibrant reddish hue and a slightly sweet balance of malt and hops, this ale features notes of caramel and toffee. It’s an excellent introduction to the world of Irish ales, showcasing the best of Irish brewing traditions.

**SEO Keywords:** O'Hara's Irish Red Ale, Irish craft beers, best Irish ales

## 4. **Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale**

Kilkenny is a classic Irish cream ale known for its smoothness and easy drinkability. With a beautiful copper color and a creamy mouthfeel, Kilkenny is defined by its toasty malt flavors and hints of caramel. It’s an exceptional alternative if you enjoy the creamy aspect of Guinness without the heavier stout qualities.

**SEO Keywords:** Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale, Irish beers to try, best creamy ales

## 5. **Smithwick's Red Ale**

Smithwick's, one of Ireland's oldest ales, provides a delightful taste of history in a bottle. Brewed in Kilkenny, it’s a well-balanced red ale with a slightly fruity character alongside the roasted malt flavors. This beer has a lighter body compared to stouts, making it a refreshing option after a long day of exploring Ireland.

**SEO Keywords:** Smithwick's Red Ale, historical Irish beers, traditional Irish ales

## 6. **Dawn of the Dead IPA (White Hag)**

For those seeking something different, try *Dawn of the Dead* from The White Hag Irish Brewing Company. This Irish IPA boasts a fresher profile, filled with zesty hop flavors balanced by a malty backbone. It’s a fantastic representation of the evolving Irish craft beer scene, attracting both IPA lovers and Guinness drinkers looking for a new adventure.

**SEO Keywords:** White Hag Irish Brewing Company, best Irish IPAs, craft beer in Ireland

## 7. **Porterhouse Plain Porter**

Last but not least, the *Porterhouse Plain Porter* is a must-try for any stout aficionado. Rich in flavor yet exceptionally smooth, this beer is brewed with a variety of roasted malts that give it its unique character. Expect hints of coffee, chocolate, and caramel with a velvety finish that rivals even the finest stouts.

**SEO Keywords:** Porterhouse Plain Porter, Irish porters, unique Irish beers

---

### Conclusion

While Guinness will always hold a special place in the hearts of beer lovers worldwide, there are numerous other exceptional Irish beers worth trying. From creamy stouts to vibrant ales, the Irish brewing tradition is rich and varied, offering something for everyone. So the next time you're at the pub or exploring local breweries, don’t hesitate to venture beyond Guinness — these seven alternative beers are well worth sipping!