Beer alternative to a 44-Across - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Beer alternative to a 44-Across," is a classic example of a cross-referenced clue. These can be tricky because their solution is directly dependent on another answer in the grid. Let's break down how to approach this type of puzzle element and explore the rich history behind the answer.

Clue Analysis

The structure of this clue is straightforward, but its content is locked behind another entry. The key components are:

• "Beer alternative": This tells us the answer is a type of beer.
• "to a 44-Across": This is the cross-reference. The answer to this clue is presented as an alternative to whatever the answer for 44-Across is.

To solve this, you almost certainly need to solve 44-Across first. Given that the answer is PORTER, we can deduce that 44-Across is likely STOUT. Porters and stouts are very similar dark beers, often seen as alternatives to one another on a menu. The clue "Beer alternative to a STOUT" points directly to PORTER.

Thinking Approaches

1. Prioritize the Referenced Clue: Your first step should always be to solve the clue being referenced (44-Across). Once you have that answer, this clue becomes much more direct.
2. Use Crossing Letters: If 44-Across is proving difficult, work on the crossing entries for this clue. If you can fill in a few letters, say P-R-E-, you can start brainstorming six-letter beer types that fit the pattern.
3. Brainstorm the Category: Once you suspect 44-Across is a beer type (like STOUT), you can list other related beers. Think: LAGER, ALE, IPA, PILSNER, and, of course, PORTER. See which one fits the letter count and any crossing letters you have.

Background Context

The answer, PORTER, is a style of dark beer that originated in London, England, in the early 18th century. Its name is believed to come from its popularity with the city's street and river porters, who were responsible for carrying goods.

Interestingly, the history of porter is deeply intertwined with stout. Originally, "stout" was simply an adjective meaning "strong." Brewers would offer a "stout porter," which was just a stronger, fuller-bodied version of their regular porter. Over time, the name was shortened to just "stout," and it evolved into its own distinct style. You can learn more about this history on the Wikipedia page for Porter.

Conclusion

This clue is a great exercise in managing cross-references. The key takeaway is to not get stuck on a clue like this in isolation. By solving the referenced clue (44-Across, likely STOUT), the puzzle provides you with the context needed to find its "alternative," leading you straight to the satisfying answer of PORTER.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This is a type of dark beer.
2. Hint 2: It was a popular drink among street and river workers in 18th-century London.
3. Hint 3: It's often compared to, and historically related to, a stout.
4. Hint 4: The name of this beer style is also a job title for someone who carries luggage.