Visiting The Guinness Academy
Did you know that when you visit the Guinness Storehouse in Ireland, you can get certified for learning how to pour ‘The Perfect Guinness’? The Guinness Academy is located inside the Guinness Storehouse, where visitors can immerse themselves in the art of pouring the perfect pint. Join us as we take a closer look at this unique experience that celebrates the heritage and craftsmanship behind Ireland’s most famous stout.
A Journey Through Guinness Heritage
As we navigated through the Guinness Storehouse, each floor revealed a new chapter in the rich history of this legendary brewery. From the early days of Arthur Guinness to the global impact of the brand, the immersive exhibits and interactive displays painted a comprehensive picture of Guinness’s journey. The Guinness Academy served as a fitting climax, allowing us to actively participate in the legacy by mastering the art of pouring. You can read more about our Guinness Storehouse visit in this blog. The Guinness Academy is located on the fourth of the seven floors of the Guinness building.
Discovering the Art of Pouring
Entering the Guinness Academy, we were welcomed by a knowledgeable and passionate instructor. First, she taught us a little bit about the history of Guinness. Next, she talked about the ingredients and the brewing process that make Guinness the iconic Irish stout. She then continued to demonstrate how the perfect Guinness is poured.
Pouring a Guinness is very different from pouring any other beer. The legendary six-step pouring Technique is passed down through generations of Guinness brewers. At the Guinness Academy, we were guided through each of the six steps, from the tilt of the pint glass to the final settle, ensuring a pint that is both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. Under the guidance of the instructor, we perfected our technique until we could pour a pint with the confidence and precision of a seasoned professional.
Mastering the Six-Step Pouring Technique
Pouring the perfect Guinness takes a little longer than any other beer. To pour the perfect Guinness, you’ll need to follow the legendary six steps.
Step 1.
Use a cool, clean, and dry Guinness-branded pint glass. Make sure it has the harp logo.
Step 2.
Hold your pointer finger on the harp. Aim the spout at the harp. Hold the glass under the tap at an angle of 45 degrees.
Step 3.
Pour until the glass is ¾ full, which is at the top of the harp logo. Make sure to never put the spout into the liquid.
Step 4.
This step takes the longest. Let the beer settle for exactly 119.5 seconds. Allowing the beer to settle will achieve the iconic creamy head.
Step 5.
Top off the pint by pushing the tap handle away from you. Make sure not to let the pint overflow. Pushing the handle away from you limits the power of the flow of the beer.
Step 6.
Enjoy your creation with your eyes first. Enjoy every sip, from the rich aromas to the velvety texture that dances on your palate.
A Certificate of Achievement
When completing the Guinness Academy experience, we were awarded a personalized certificate, proudly recognizing our newly found expertise in the art of pouring the perfect pint!
The Legacy in Every Sip
Now, every time we pour a Guinness, we’re not just recreating a ritual; we’re carrying forward a legacy. The six-step pouring technique, the history lessons, and the shared moments in the Guinness Storehouse are etched into every pour. It’s a legacy that extends beyond the certificate hanging on our walls—a legacy that we share with every Guinness lover around the world.
Becoming a Guinness Ambassador
Walking out of the Guinness Academy with our certificates, we realized that we had become more than just adept pourers; we had become unofficial ambassadors of the Guinness legacy. Armed with knowledge about its history, the pouring ritual, and the nuances of its flavor, we found ourselves sharing our newfound expertise with friends and fellow beer enthusiasts. The Guinness Academy had equipped us not only with a skill but with a story to tell and a legacy to pass on.
Final Thoughts
The Guinness Academy in the Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Ireland’s brewing heritage and it is totally worth paying a few extra bucks! Getting our certificates for pouring the perfect Guinness is a cherished memento that serves as a reminder of the time spent honing our skills and the memories created within the Guinness Storehouse.
The Guinness Academy offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of pouring the perfect pint, while also immersing oneself in the captivating history and culture of Guinness. So, raise your glass and toast to the craftsmanship and tradition that make Guinness a true Irish masterpiece. Sláinte!
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