Brooklyn Brewery
Russian Imperial Stout
ABV: 10%
" This is the famous Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout. In the 18th century, Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia, ordered a stout to be sent to her from England. This beer was brewed strong and hoppy to survive the sea voyage, and it arrived in perfect condition. Soon "Russian Imperial Stout" became the toast of the Russian aristocracy. Brewed since 1994, our Black Chocolate Stout has itself become a modern classic, heralded the world over. It achieves its dark chocolate aroma and flavor through the artful blending of six malts and three distinct mashes. Properly kept, it will improve in the bottle for many years. This stout is the toast of the winter season in many countries, and there is nothing better to enjoy with chocolate desserts, cheesecake, ice cream, fine cheeses and roaring fireplaces.
Given this beer’s higher ABV and sturdy character, we think it’s a prime candidate for cellaring. Find a cool, dry spot away from light sources, and see how it changes in the years to come. You never quite know what will happen when you age a beer: perhaps the body will smooth out, notes of vanilla, oak, and tannins will come to the front, or hints of leather and soy sauce will make themselves known. No matter what, remember that beer is meant for drinking, so don’t keep it to yourself for too long."
This review is for the Winter 2020 Edition Black Chocolate Stout.
At Bayou Barley we certainly love our stouts. This one in particular is near the top of our lists when it comes to Russian Imperials.
It pours near black with a tan head that fades quickly. There's some big aromas and tastes that come out out of this beer. Coffee, dark chocolate and caramel all come to mind. It even has a slight earthy-metallic quality and of course that Russian Stout bitterness lies underneath the layers of flavor.
It gives a heavy bodied mouth feel. Somewhat sticky on the palate but also very smooth and creamy. A wonderfully brewed beer.
Overall this is a great beer that cements itself in the upper echelon of Russian Stouts.
Bayou Barley Score: 88
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