Wikipedia Article About Porter ale on Wikipedia A heavy, dark-brown, strongly flavored beer. The dark color and strong flavor come from the addition of roasted Malt. Porters are usually higher in alcohol than regular Lager beers. Porter is a style of beer in the ale family - developed in the 18th century which has a dark colour, originally from the use of highly dried brown malt, a roast malt aroma and hop bitterness. It is generally brewed with soft rather than hard water.