Stone Brewing Company Espresso Imperial Russian Stout

Hello beer lovers and welcome to another edition of the NorCal Beer Blog's brew review.

Tonight’s featured beer is Stone Brewing Company Espresso Imperial Russian Stout.

From the Stone Brewing Company website: “Like the classic version, this Odd Year edition was brewed in the authentic, historical style of an imperial Russian stout, but with the addition of several hundred pounds of espresso beans from our friends at Ryan Bros. Coffee. Layers of flavor and complexity augment an already enigmatic brew, leaving this darkly delicious libation positively brimming with deep, rich espresso flavors that meld beautifully with the roasty bitterness of the dark malts.”

Let’s get started!

Appearance: Pours black with a thin cream colored head and spotty lacing.

Aroma: Espresso, dark chocolate, dark fruits, roasted malt and a little boozy.

Taste: Dark and caramel malts, espresso, dark and milk chocolate, vanilla and dark fruits. There’s slow booziness that gradually creeps in.

Overall: Thick and rich, Stone Brewing Company Espresso Imperial Russian Stout is to be savored.  At 11% ABV this intense Espresso Imperial Russian Stout is not to be missed (if you’re a fan of the style).  I loved this beer and plan to source some more.  I don’t care if summer is here…this beer is exceptional!

Cheers!

Mark Harvey

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