Kernel Export India Porter

This Export India Porter from The Kernel Brewery in London is inspired by mid-19th century recipes from Barclay Perkins and Whitbread – beers originally brewed for export to British servicemen stationed in India. Using insights from the Durden Park Beer Circle’s Old British Beers and How To Make Them, they’ve adapted those classic recipes for modern palates.

They softened the sharp edge of traditional black malts with additions of chocolate and crystal malt, enriching the body and mouthfeel while maintaining a roasted backbone. The beer is generously late-hopped and dry-hopped like their Pale Ales and IPAs – typically with American varieties for bold citrus and fruit character, but occasionally using British hops like Bramling Cross for more traditional depth.

Each batch varies slightly, but the result is a deeply coloured, highly carbonated porter with notes of coffee, cocoa, and dark fruit, lifted by hop brightness and a refreshing finish.