Sweet Stout

A very dark, sweet, full-bodied, slightly roasty ale that can suggest coffee and cream, or sweetened espresso. Often brewed with lactose for residual sweetness.

Moderate to strong sweet malt aroma with coffee, chocolate, and cream notes. Low roast. No harsh burnt character. Low hop aroma. Clean fermentation with lactose sweetness contribution. Rich and dessert-like.

Very dark brown to black, 30-40 SRM. Clear. Tan to brown head with moderate to good retention.

Sweet, creamy flavor with coffee, chocolate, and caramel. Lactose contributes persistent sweetness. Low to moderate roast. Very low hop bitterness. Sweet, smooth finish. Dessert-like.

Full body with moderate carbonation. Thick and smooth from lactose. Creamy and sweet. No astringency.

Also known as Milk Stout or Cream Stout, developed in England in the early 20th century by adding lactose (unfermentable milk sugar) for residual sweetness and body. Marketed as a nutritional drink. Mackeson's Stout (brewed since 1907) is the classic example. The style was revived by American craft brewers in the 1990s-2000s.

What is Sweet Stout beer?

Sweet Stout / Milk Stout (BJCP 16A) — a dark, sweet, full-bodied ale with coffee and cream notes.

What is the ABV of Sweet Stout?

Sweet Stout has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.0-6.0%.

How bitter is Sweet Stout beer?

Sweet Stout measures 20-40 IBU (International Bitterness Units).

What are some examples of Sweet Stout beers?

Mackeson's Triple Stout, Left Hand Milk Stout, Founders Breakfast Stout (partially), Lancaster Milk Stout