Russian Imperial Stout

This one I had for the first time at Brew Ha Ha in Davenport. I loved it so much I picked up a 4 pack. Definitely something to drink slowly with dessert. Or as dessert.

Appearance: Thick syrupy pour into a snifter. Jet black color with brown head worthy of a finger and a half. Well sustained. Visibility is negligible.

Aroma: Extremely chocolaty in smell with hints of dark cherry and burning wood. What follows is a brief yet subtle nuttiness. Reminiscent of molasses

Taste: Packs a punch especially with a woody cask flavor finishing hot, similar to Old Rasputin by North Coast Brewing. Surprises the palate at first, but gradually is accepted and delectably enjoyed. A chard burnt flavor remains, but sweetens as the drink progresses. I find this sweetness far more fruity than most other russian imperial stouts. In fact I would like to categorize it more in the area of raisin or dark sun dried fruits than anything else, leaving a mild, but delicate balance between the burnt chocolate/ black Patton tannins and the sweet effervescent fruitiness with touches of nuts. Hop bitterness is minimal.

Mouthfeel: More carbonated than most but still maintains a nice thick and even tacky mouthfeel.

Overall Impression: Best (Russian Imperial) stout I've had. Full bodied, complex and uniquely balanced with the touch of dried fruits. mmm!

93/100