The quest for the perfect pint of Guinness has become a hot topic of discussion in recent years, with social media accounts dedicated to showcasing both exemplary and subpar pours of the iconic Irish stout. As a self-proclaimed Guinness enthusiast, I have found myself on the receiving end of many a disappointing pint – whether it be lacking in head, too bitter in taste, or served in a non-Guinness branded glass. Having had the opportunity to sample Guinness in its home country of Ireland, I can attest to the claim that it simply tastes better there. The secret lies in the way it is pressurized with nitrogen gas and poured using a special gas mixture that creates a smoother, creamier mouthfeel compared to pints poured in UK pubs. Additionally, the fact that Guinness is brewed in Ireland naturally ensures that the pints served there are fresher and more authentic.
During a recent episode of the popular TV quiz show “The Chase,” contestant Darragh Ennis, who hails from Dublin, took a moment to advocate for the proper pouring of Guinness. He pointed out that while there are some pubs in England that serve a genuinely great pint of Guinness, the majority fall short in meeting the high standards set by Irish establishments. To everyone’s surprise, Darragh went on to name a pub in Liverpool that he believed was doing it right – The Lutine Bell. Situated on Breck Road, this unassuming pub may not catch your eye from the outside, but according to Darragh, it serves the best Guinness in Liverpool. Intrigued by his endorsement, I decided to pay a visit to The Lutine Bell with a friend to see if it lived up to the hype.
A Taste Test at The Lutine Bell
Upon entering The Lutine Bell, it was evident that Darragh’s praise had not gone unnoticed by the regular patrons, as conversations about his endorsement filled the air. Wanting to experience the pub like any other customer, I opted for an incognito approach and ordered a pint of Guinness without drawing attention to myself. As Darragh had emphasized, the key to a perfect pint of Guinness lies in the proper pouring technique, the cleanliness of the taps, and the ideal serving temperature. Priced at £7 for two pints, the Guinness at The Lutine Bell was poured with precision and handed over to us with a modest head, which initially raised some concerns.
However, those concerns quickly dissipated once we took our first sips of the pint. The Guinness was impeccably smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of chill without being overly cold. There was a noticeable absence of bubbles or fizz, indicating a well-poured pint. As any Guinness enthusiast would attest, there is a certain instinctive recognition when you come across a truly exceptional pint, and our experience at The Lutine Bell certainly fit the bill. The confirmation came when our photographer, Andy Teebay, arrived to capture some images for the article, and we were met with curious gazes and inquiries from the pub’s patrons.
Behind the Bar at The Lutine Bell
Engaging in conversation with Paddy Kelly, one of the bar staff at The Lutine Bell, I inquired about the secret behind their perfect pints of Guinness. Paddy modestly stated that they simply followed the guidelines outlined by Darragh and other Guinness connoisseurs. However, he did confirm that Darragh had indeed visited the pub, sporting a signed Kevin Keegan shirt, and had even taken on the role of bartender, pouring pints for the delighted patrons. Describing Darragh as a “cracking fella” who mingled with everyone, Paddy shared anecdotes of the quizzer’s previous visit to The Lutine Bell, where he had intended to have just one pint but ended up enjoying several more.
The camaraderie and warmth exuded by the staff and patrons at The Lutine Bell painted a picture of a local pub that not only serves exceptional pints of Guinness but also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among its visitors. While Liverpool boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with popular establishments in the city center, my experience at The Lutine Bell served as a reminder that hidden gems can often be found in the suburbs, offering a more intimate and authentic pub experience.
In conclusion, the journey to find the best pint of Guinness in Liverpool led me to The Lutine Bell, a pub that not only met but exceeded expectations set by Guinness aficionados like Darragh Ennis. With its commitment to proper pouring techniques, cleanliness, and serving temperature, The Lutine Bell has solidified its reputation as a haven for Guinness enthusiasts seeking the perfect pint. As I raise my glass to toast to the impeccable craftsmanship behind each pour, I am reminded that sometimes, the most exceptional experiences can be found in the most unexpected of places. Cheers to The Lutine Bell and the art of pouring the perfect pint of Guinness.