Brewed at the request of Russian Emperor Peter the Great after he visited England around 1700, the first batch arrived spoiled from the long voyage. The English brewers added larger amounts of both hops and alcohol, and this beer became a staple in the Imperial court - and started the style of "Imperial-strength" beers.
Ranging in color from a dark reddish copper to an almost-black brown, the flavor is exceedingly deep and complex from the large amounts of malt, hops, and alcohol. Although specific flavor profiles vary, general characteristics are a roasted and burnt malt flavors, dark fruit esters, moderate to high malt bitterness (from both English and American hops), and detectable alcohol flavors. Some can be cellar aged and will age like wine.
Best served at cellar temperature, 55-57 degrees, and in a pint glass, tumbler, or beer snifter.
A demonic Russian Style Imperial Stout, brewed with Intelligensia coffee Mexican vanilla, and Indian sugar this beer defies description, available one day a year in April at the brewery, Dark Lord Day. (Description provided by company)
Produced in the tradition of 18th Century English brewers who supplied the court of Russia's Catherine the Great, Old Rasputin seems to develop a cult following wherever it goes. It's a rich, intense brew with big complex flavors and a warming finish.
One of the earliest examples of the Russian Imperial Stout in the United States, Expedition Stout offers immensely complex flavors crafted specifically with vintage aging in mind, as its profile will continue to mature and develop over the years.