A Black and Tan is more than just a drink—it’s a showstopper in a glass. With its striking layered look and bold, balanced flavor, it’s a favorite for beer lovers who like a little flair with their pour. You get the crisp, hoppy bite of a pale ale topped with the velvety richness of a stout, and when poured right, the two sit beautifully apart in the glass. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: patience makes all the difference when layering.
Black And Tan
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Pint glass (or a curved lager glass for a different look)
Ingredients
– 1/2 pint (236 ml) pale ale (Bass Ale is a classic choice)
– 1/2 pint (236 ml) stout (like Guinness or another dry Irish stout)
Method
- Start with a clean, dry pint glass. Chill it lightly if you like, but don’t freeze it—too cold and the beers might foam too much.
- Pour the pale ale into the glass until it’s halfway full. Tilt the glass slightly as you pour to minimize foam and get a nice clean base.
- Now for the fun part—layering the stout. Hold a spoon upside down just over the pale ale, with the tip touching the inside of the glass. Slowly pour the stout over the back of the spoon so it gently floats on top. Go slow and steady. You’ll see the dark stout form a distinct top layer.
Tips for Success
– Go slow with the stout. Rushing will mix the beers instead of layering them.
– Use chilled, not icy cold, beer. Extreme cold can affect how the beers layer and taste.
– Pick beers with contrasting densities. Stouts are usually denser and will float if poured carefully. Not all beers will layer perfectly, so some experimenting may be needed.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This drink is best made fresh. The layers start blending within 10–15 minutes, so pour just before serving. It doesn’t store well once poured.
Serving Suggestions
Black and Tan pairs beautifully with hearty, pub-style foods. Here are some of my favorite combos:
Barbecue
Think smoky ribs or grilled sausages. The stout’s roasted flavor stands up well to rich meats, while the pale ale cuts through the fat.
Fish and Chips
That golden, crispy batter and tender fish are a perfect match for the crispness of the ale and the creamy finish of the stout.
Chocolate Desserts
A fudgy brownie or a slice of chocolate cake works wonders with the deep, malty notes of the stout.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s refreshing, a little indulgent, and always gets compliments when I serve it.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Try one of these fun takes on the classic:
Honey and Rye Black and Tan
– Use a rye pale ale and a honey stout.
– The spice of the rye and the sweetness of honey create a cozy, slightly sweet variation.
Chocolate and Cherry Black and Tan
– Use cherry wheat beer as the base and top with chocolate stout.
– It’s rich and fruity—like a black forest cake in a glass.
Coffee and Caramel Black and Tan
– Use caramel ale and coffee stout.
– Think of this one like a caramel macchiato with a malty twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Yes, you can absolutely enjoy a Black and Tan without the booze. Just use non-alcoholic versions of both beers. The layering technique is the same, and the look is just as fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any beer?
You can try different combinations, but stick to a lighter-bodied beer on the bottom and a denser stout on top for the classic layered look.
Why didn’t mine layer?
Chances are the stout was poured too quickly or the beers were too warm. Use a spoon, pour slowly, and make sure the beers are chilled.
Can I prep this in advance?
Not really. The layers start to blend after a while, so it’s best to pour just before serving.
What’s the best spoon to use?
Any tablespoon will work—just make sure to hold it close to the beer and pour slowly over the back for a smooth float.
Is it okay to stir a Black and Tan?
Nope! Stirring will mix the layers and defeat the whole purpose of the drink’s visual and flavor contrast.
What if I want it sweeter?
Try adding a splash of flavored syrup, like vanilla or cherry, to the pale ale before pouring the stout. It’ll add a subtle twist.
Try It Your Way
The classic Black and Tan is a great base to build on, but don’t be afraid to make it your own. Play with the beer types, tweak the ratio (more stout for a richer sip, more ale for a brighter finish), or add a creative twist with flavor infusions.
Whether you’re relaxing after work or hosting friends, it’s a drink that always starts a conversation—and looks great while doing it. Cheers!
