MURPHY’S

BEER REVIEW: 438

BREWER: Heiniken, Lothian, Scotland

STYLE: Stout

ABV: 4%

VESSEL: 440ml tin

DATE OF POST: 27th February 2026

 

JYMI SAY’S…

Murphy’s is back!!!

Did it ever go away? I’m really not sure. But suddenly I’m seeing it on posters, in pubs and on supermarket shelves once more.

Before I do the expert one handed tin spin to reveal more info on the back of the can, I do have fears of what’s gone on here…

Tin spin completed with aplomb.

Yep. Heineken. Heineken are involved. Of course they f’ing are.

I’m beyond these big boy take over rants though (you know they will be back once I’m in the mood however!).

Let’s just look at the Murph for what it is…

And it’s totally fine and drinkable. There isn’t a huge amount of flavour but what you do get are little tickles of sweetness balanced with a back end of bitterness. There is a touch of smoke and a hint of chocolate too. But none of it sings. There is zero pizazz.

However, Murph, as mentioned, is perfectly drinkable even if only really being a bit, meh.

Jymi’s Rating: 59%

 

SAMMY SAY’S…

Murphy’s is the stout you reach for when you want the comfort of something familiar but with a slightly different accent. It pours a deep, velvety black with a tight, creamy head that settles like a well‑rehearsed ritual. The aroma leans into roasted malt, soft cocoa, and a whisper of caramel, nothing showy, just quietly confident.
On the palate, Murphy’s is smooth and rounded, almost gentle. The roasted barley brings a mellow bitterness, but it never sharpens into anything aggressive. Instead, you get chocolate notes, a touch of toffee, and a finish that’s clean rather than lingering. It’s the kind of stout that feels like it’s trying to make friends with everyone in the room.
Is it as iconic or complex as Guinness? Not quite. Guinness has that unmistakable tang and a slightly more assertive character that gives it its legendary status. But Murphy’s isn’t far behind. It’s like the dependable sibling who doesn’t need the spotlight to be appreciated, less famous, slightly softer, but absolutely worth your time.
A smooth, approachable stout with classic Irish charm. Not quite Guinness, but close enough that you’ll happily finish the pint while debating the difference.

Sammy’s Rating: 64%

 

MUSE ON BOOZE RATING: 61.5%

MOB review next weekend: SLUSH by PRAIRIE ARTISAN ALES

Sammy & Jymi – Musing on Booze weekly since 2017

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M O B 2026

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