How to Make a Black and Tan Layered Beer with Green Food Dye for St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is all about celebrating Irish culture with good company, great food, and of course, festive drinks! One classic beer combination that stands out is the Black and Tan—a beautifully layered mix of a pale beer and a dark stout. This year, why not take the festivity up a notch by adding a splash of green to the mix? Here’s how to make a St. Patrick’s Day-inspired Black and Tan with green food dye.

What You’ll Need:
- A light beer (such as a pale ale, lager, or pilsner)
- A dark stout (traditionally Guinness, but any stout will work)
- Green food coloring
- A layering tool (preferably a Perfect Black and Tan layering tool for better layering)
- A pint glass

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Base
Start by filling your pint glass about halfway with your light beer. Add 1-2 drops of green food coloring to the beer and gently stir until the color is evenly mixed.
2. Layer the Stout
The key to a perfect Black and Tan is layering. Place the layering tool over the glass and slowly pour the stout over the tool. This technique helps the stout settle on top of the green beer rather than mixing with it. The lower density of the stout will naturally keep it floating above the heavier bottom beer, creating a distinct two-tone effect.
3. Admire Your Creation
Once the pour is complete, you should see a striking contrast between the dark stout and the vibrant green base. Let the colors settle for a moment before taking a sip.

Tips for the Perfect Black and Tan:
- Add the dye slowly to get just the right amount of green color. Some dyes may be more concentrated than others.
- Pour the stout slowly to maintain a clean separation between the layers.
- If you don’t have a layering tool, you can use a Guinness spoon or even a steady hand with a gentle pour.
- The lighter the beer, the more vivid the green color will appear.
- Serve in a clear pint glass to fully appreciate the festive effect.

​This St. Patrick’s Day, impress your guests with this festive twist on a classic drink. Cheers to good times and great beer—Sláinte