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Why did they use a German saint for a Russian Imp Stout? Sampled had a midnight black color. Very dense with no light really coming though when held to the light. Good viscosity as a light clinging stayed with the glass. Limited head and retention through the tasting though.

The nose has a great malty complexity to it. There is more of a chocolate malt aroma, but some light roast and melanodian malt notes as well. There is a light lactic almost oatmeal like aroma that enhances the chocolate notes. Noticeable body with some clean alcohol and minor yeast notes. More of an English feel but there are some US hop notes that are just detectable on the back end.

The taste is big with a great malt flavor. A more dark chocolate malt flavor really comes out. Even more so than the nose indicates. There is a light toffee note that blends well with the more oatmeal like flavor that just leaves a great malt flavor into the finish. The roast and astringent notes back off and really let the chocolate malt flavor shine. The yeast is a bit cleaner than the nose indicated. Very clean with some notes of alcohol. More in the body than taste. Some nice sautéed plum notes that really balance out the chocolate malt nicely. Very clean.

The body is big with some warming effects. Carbonation is nice with a just a hint to let you know it's there but don't overshadow the beer. Nice complexity and cleanly brewed. Overall a great RIS.

Served In: Bottle