Barleywine & Imperial Stout - Russian Imperial Stout

BJCP 12-C

AROMA

Fruity esters, reminiscent of dark fruit, merged with intense roastiness and maltiness. Hop aroma is usually also present.

APPEARANCE

Very dark reddish-black color; opaque

FLAVOR

Intensely fruity and malty, backed up by balancing roastiness and prominent hop bitterness and flavor. A "burnt currant" character may be present, along with a suggestion of cocoa or strong coffee. Alcoholic strength should be evident, along with a deep, complex malt flavor. The finish can vary from relatively dry to moderately sweet, usually with some lingering roastiness and warming character.

MOUTH FEEL

Very full-bodied and rich, with intense flavors and perceptible alcohol presence. Carbonation is relatively low.

OVERALL

An intensely flavorful beer. Roasty, fruity, and bittersweet, with a notable alcohol presence. Dark fruit melds with roasty, burnt, almost tar-like sensations

INGREDIENTS

Well-modified pale malt, with generous quantities of roasted grain. Flavor and aroma hops should include English varieties for authenticity. Alkaline water would balance the abundance of acidic roasted grain in the grist.

COMMENTS

Brewed to high gravity and hopping level in England for export to the Baltic States and Russia

HISTORY

Said to be popular with the Russian Imperial Court.

COMMERCIAL EXAMPLES

Samuel Smith Imperial Stout, Courage Imperial Stout, Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout, Rogue Imperial Stout, North Coast Old Rasputin Imperial Stout, Victory Storm King.

VITAL

OG: 1.075-1.095+ IBUs: 50-90+ FG: 1.018-1.030+ SRM: 20-40 ABV: 8-12+%