Stout Impériale Russe, 10.5%
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Russian Imperial Stout, 10.5%, aged around 6 months : Opaque black. Thick creamy brown 3-4 finger sparkling head and floating yeast, lasting around 10 minutes, with light legs and swirl reaction, but a strong lacing. Flavors of raisins, dark berries, chocolate, coffee, black liquorice, vanilla, smoked dark grains and herbal hops. Slick and oily medium body with light crisp. Medium to strong strength finish, dominant smoked grains similar to bacon, lightly earthy feel, slightly vinous, dry and minty. A bit sour with diacetyl from the aging session, still bearable but didn’t age as expected. Lack balance and proper « Russian barrel » sensation, more like a dry stout. Although the alcohol is well hidden, so it’s at least pleasantly warming. Overall decent quality craft.