Guinness Enthusiasts Clash Over Controversial 60/40 Pint Debate Sparks Calls for Legal Action
Guinness enthusiasts find themselves divided over a new creation, the “60/40” pint, which blends the traditional stout with its alcohol-free version, Guinness 0.0. This innovative pint reduces the alcohol by volume (ABV) of standard Guinness from 4.2% to approximately 1.7%. While some see this as a breakthrough in low-alcohol options, others express strong opposition.
Details of the Controversial 60/40 Pint
The 60/40 pint retains its classic two-stage pour method, with the Guinness 0.0 poured first. The Palmerstown House Pub in Dublin first introduced this variant, promoting it as a lighter option for those wanting to enjoy the iconic flavor without the higher alcohol content.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV) comparison:
- Regular Guinness: 4.2%
- 60/40 Pint: 1.7%
Public Reactions
Social media reactions have varied. Some users dismissed the 60/40 pint as “nonsense,” while others called for it to be made illegal. A notable comment questioned its validity: “What is the point to this?” Conversely, a segment of the public appreciates the creativity behind it.
Darah Curran, widely known as The Guinness Guru on social media, shared his thoughts on the crossover drink. With over 165,000 followers, he noted the marketing potential. He commented that the launch was likely aimed at going viral and attracting attention:
- “If you want to go out and have 10 pints and only feel like you’ve had four, fair play.”
- Curran acknowledged the mixed sentiments about the drink:
“Is it ruining the classic pint of Guinness? Maybe it is, but just don’t order it.”
Shifts in Drinking Trends
The introduction of the 60/40 pint coincides with changing drinking habits among young adults. A survey in October revealed that half of young adults are increasingly selecting “now and low” alcohol beverages. Moreover, nearly 44% of UK adults are now opting for no- and low-alcohol options—up from 31% in 2018—as they seek to manage their drinking more effectively.
This shift indicates a growing market for lighter alcoholic beverages, reflecting taste changes and health-conscious choices among consumers.
