Gerri,
Guinness uses Insinglass (fish) to produce their beer so not only is it not vegan but not even vegetarian. They say that no fish stuff ends up in the beer but if it used in the process so most veggies avoid it -mostly because it is a byproduct of the fishing industry.
I have tasted some pretty good heavy beer that taste like coffee - those are my favorite - usually limited edition small label beers. I love to go to places that have odd beers because they always have those limited dark brews. Love those coffee beers!
Microbrews OK but it depends on the type. I hate cheapie clear beer like Miller - it is all watered down. II want to taste my beer. My dark beer lover friend and I call Miller - ■■■■ beer. 