Wiseacre Cicerone Practice Test

The characteristic trait of an Irish Stout is its dark color and roasted flavors. Irish Stouts are typically made with dark malts, which contribute to their rich, deep brown to black appearance. The roasting of these malts also imparts distinct flavors associated with coffee, chocolate, and a slight bitterness, which are hallmark traits of this style. This dark and roasted profile is what differentiates Irish Stout from many other beer styles, making it recognized globally for its unique taste and visual appeal.

Other options do not align with the defining features of an Irish Stout. High hop bitterness is more typical of certain other beer styles, such as IPAs, which balance malt sweetness with hop intensity. A light body and fruity esters are characteristics commonly found in lighter beers, such as pale ales or hefeweizens, which lack the rich malt profile of an Irish Stout. Lastly, a pale color with a crisp finish is indicative of lagers or other light ales, which again contrasts sharply with the robust nature of Irish Stouts.