As we continue our exploration of great Irish drinks leading up to St. Paddy's day, it would be a shame to not highlight a classic beverage: The Black & Tan.
Although I normally like my Irish things free of English influence, I must admit to liking the Black & Tan which in the United States is classically a mix of Guinness stout and Bass ale. In Ireland, however, this drink is normally 100% Irish and is made from mixing Guinness stout and Smithwick's Irish ale (although it is less popular than in the States). Sometimes the latter is referred to as a "Blacksmith". Other variations exist involving light lagers or red ales mixed with stouts or porters and I am sure that a great study could be made as to which mix is the best. Regardless of how it is mixed, this drink is the closest thing a beer guy or girl can get to a techno-colored beverage like the classic "tequilla sunrise". This optical treat is the result of the stout (in most cases Guinness) having less gravity than the ale (the heavier beer sinks . . .).
Going with the Guinness/Bass combo, the beverage is very creamy and has a lot of depth coming from the beautiful mix of the frothy black head and the brilliant body of ale. It also is a testament that the English can mix with the Irish and that diversity is a good thing. While mixing something black with something pale may be risque for some backward societies, I think this wondrous melange of color and flavor works in perfect harmony.
Slainte!
