Irish Depth Charge Beer Bomb

Looking to level up your beer game with a daring, bar-worthy pour? The Irish Depth Charge Beer Bomb combines the punch of vodka with the malty richness of Bass Ale and the creamy boldness of Guinness. It’s part stunt, part cocktail, and all fun.

This drink delivers a strong kick with an unexpectedly smooth finish—and it’s just as much about the pour as it is about the flavor. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day parties, game days, or anytime you want to bring a little pub-style mischief into your home bar setup.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Vodka
• Bass Ale (or your favorite English-style pale ale)
• Guinness Stout (for that signature Irish creaminess)

Equipment:

• Shot glass
• Pint glass

Instructions

1. Fill the Shot Glass

Pour 2 oz of vodka into a sturdy shot glass. Set it aside.

2. Set Up the Pint Glass Flip

Place the pint glass upside down over the shot glass so their rims touch, trapping the vodka inside.

3. Flip It Like a Pro

Hold both glasses securely, then quickly flip the setup upside down so the shot glass is now inside the pint glass.

(Pro tip: Do this over a sink or towel your first time—it takes a little practice!)

4. Add the Beers

Pour Bass Ale into the pint glass slowly, filling it about halfway. Then top it off with Guinness for a creamy, dark layer on top.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Once the beers are added, the vodka shot will slowly rise and blend. Sip straight from the pint glass and enjoy the bold, malty explosion!

this RECIPE

Notes

• The flip technique is dramatic but optional—if it feels risky, you can pour the vodka into the glass before adding the beers.
• Guinness will float best if poured gently over the back of a spoon for a layered effect.
• Drink slowly—this one packs a punch!

Helpful Tips

• Cold beer is key: Keep both ales chilled for the best flavor and pour performance.
• Pour slowly to keep the Guinness from disturbing the vodka shot too early.
• Want it layered? Use a spoon to float the Guinness. Pour slowly and close to the liquid surface.
• Practice the flip with water first if you’re nervous—it’s all about control and confidence!

Conservation and Storage

• This drink is meant to be served immediately—the beer loses carbonation and the layers fade fast.
• Do not pre-mix or store once assembled. Make each one fresh!

Substitutions and Variations

• No Bass Ale? Use any smooth pale ale or lager (like Smithwick’s or Harp).
• No Guinness? Use any stout or dark beer, though Guinness gives that classic Irish flair.
• Make it a cocktail shot: Skip the ale, mix vodka + Guinness + a splash of coffee liqueur in a shot glass for a rich shot.
• Want less booze? Cut vodka to 1 oz or swap it for Irish whiskey for a smoother burn.

Storage Instructions

• Not ideal for storage.
• Mix and serve on demand.
• You can pre-chill all components and glasses for faster prep during parties.

Details

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 minutes
Yield: 1 drink
Category: Beer Cocktail / Pub Drink
Method: Layered / Stunt Pour
Cuisine: Irish-American
Diet: Gluten (contains beer)
Keywords: Irish depth charge, beer bomb drink, vodka beer cocktail, stout and ale cocktail, layered beer drink

Equipment

• Shot glass
• Pint glass
• Steady hands
• Spoon (optional, for floating Guinness)

Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

Serving Size: 1 pint
Calories: 270
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 18mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this drink taste like?
It’s bold and malty with a surprising smoothness. The vodka adds warmth, the ale brings light hops, and the Guinness smooths it all out with creamy bitterness.

Can I skip the glass flip?
Yes! It’s fun for presentation but not essential. You can layer the vodka, then ale, then Guinness in the pint glass instead.

Is this the same as an Irish Car Bomb?
Nope! An Irish Car Bomb is a shot of Irish cream + whiskey dropped into Guinness. This is a totally different combo with vodka, ale, and stout.

Will the vodka mix in?
Yes! As you pour the beers, the vodka will slowly rise and blend, creating a drink that evolves as you sip.

Conclusion

The Irish Depth Charge Beer Bomb is a pub-worthy creation that’s perfect for bold beer lovers and party trick enthusiasts alike. With a vodka core, a malty ale base, and a creamy stout top, it’s a layered drinking experience that’s as fun to make as it is to drink.

Looking for more party-worthy pours?

• Black & Tan (Stout + Pale Ale Layered Beer)
• Guinness & Cider Snakebite
• Jameson & Ginger Beer Mule

Tried this drink?
Tag your flips, froths, and pours with #DepthChargeBeerBomb on Instagram or Pinterest—I’d love to raise a glass with you from afar! 🥂🍀

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