Sipwise

Black and Tan

A dramatic two-layer pub classic: rich, roasty Guinness stout poured slowly over pale ale, the dark and light holding their ground.

More drinks like this
Black and Tan cocktail made with beer, served in a pint glass
Base
beer
Glassware
Pint glass
Flavor Profile
bitterearthy

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pale ale, chilled
  • 8 oz Guinness stout, chilled

Instructions

  1. 1Pour pale ale into a pint glass until half full.
  2. 2Hold a spoon curved-side up just above the surface of the ale.
  3. 3Slowly pour Guinness over the back of the spoon so it floats on top of the pale ale.

Origin & Story

Britain/Ireland, early 20th century

The Black and Tan takes its name from the two-toned appearance of stout layered over pale ale — the dark stout floating on top due to its lower density. In Ireland, the name carries political connotations (the Black and Tans were British paramilitaries of the 1920s), so the drink is typically ordered as 'a half and half' there. Outside Ireland, the name is freely used, and the careful pouring technique — over the back of a spoon — remains its defining ritual.