Renegade Brewery offers its own Blackguard Stout as alternative during national Guinness shortage

As a Guinness shortage rocks the nation at Christmas time, a local brewery is hoping its stout will be the perfect alternative to the popular Irish drink.

Renegade Brewery in Yattendon (formerly West Berkshire Brewery) wants Guinness drinkers to take a chance with its Blackguard Stout this holiday season.

The nationwide shortage of the dark-coloured pub staple has taken the UK by surprise, with industry experts citing a combination of factors.

Increased demand during the festive period has collided with ongoing supply chain issues, including transportation delays and disruptions in production schedules.

Some reports suggest that breweries have been struggling to keep up with the surge in popularity Guinness has seen post-pandemic, as more people return to pubs and rekindle their love for the iconic stout.

In response, Renegade is offering its Blackguard Stout to landlords and drinkers alike in the hopes that Blackguard will fill the Guinness-shaped hole in many people’s hearts at the moment.

A Renegade spokesperson said: “Crafted with the same dedication to quality and flavour that has made the brewery a rising star in the craft beer world, Blackguard is a rich and velvety stout with notes of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and a subtle hint of caramel.

“It’s everything a stout lover could ask for – and then some.

“Why choose Blackguard? For one, it’s proudly brewed in England, supporting local businesses and reducing your carbon footprint.

“Secondly, its bold, complex profile holds its own against the most famous stouts in the world.

“And let’s not forget, it’s available now, ready to keep your taps flowing and your customers happy.”

The brewery wants die-hard Guinness fans to not despair and use the shortage as a chance to “broaden their horizons” as well as support local, smaller breweries.

Blackguard is also a gluten-free alternative to Guinness.