Name: Russian Imperial Stout

Brewer: Stone Brewing

Style: Russian Imperial Stout

Vintage: 2008

Cellared On: May 9th, 2008

Original Tasting: June 11th, 2008

It took two months, but I finally found it.

I knew this brew was being released Mid-March, so you can imagine my confusion when I had one beverage center telling me this wouldn’t be available until the fall (what?). Thank god Glenville beverage was on the ball, and I was able to swoop in a grab the last few they had in stock.

Stone’s RIS sure looks exactly as you would expect. It’s black, black, black.

This brew may be the most fragrant stout I’ve ever smelled. Espresso and bitter roasted malt flavors dominate, with notes of chocolate in there as well. You can’t miss the booze in this one either. It’s powerful.

The taste of this beer is deep and complex. Heavy malts and coffee flavors are upfront, with subtle chocolate notes coming through. Bitter hoppy flavors join the the party mid-palette, and there’s a pleasant burst of caramel sweetness as the beer finishes. Sweet and roasted malts linger for well after the finish. There’s a slight warming from the alcohol, but it’s not nearly as strong as the smell indicated initially.

It’s a thick beer, but not nearly as dense as I thought.

All in all, a fantastic stout and well worth tracking down.

Be sure to check out the Stone web page for additional cellaring and tasting notes.

Cellar Outlook: There’s really not much doubt here - this one will last for years. I expect that some of the harshness and boozy flavors will fade a bit and let some fruit notes start to come through.

Next Tasting: May 2009

Jason

jason@brewbasement.com

www.brewbasement.com