Hello beer aficionados. I am back to review another beer that I have not tried. This month I decided to go with Samuel Adams Imperial Stout. This is part of their "Imperial Series" which have a higher ABV than their standard product line. I have a lot of respect and gratitude for Jim Koch and Boston Beer Company, especially for being the catalyst for the craft beer resurgence back in the early 90's. Their strong market presence is a saving grace in a sea of boring, watery pale lagers. By the way, did you know that Boston Beer Company is now the nations largest independent, publicly-traded brewery? Now to the beer.......
Samuel Adams Imperial Stout- Boston Beer Company, Boston MA
Description: Our take on the stout brewed by 18th century English brewers for the Russian Imperial Court of Catherine II. The special malted barley in this intense and massive brew delivers rich flavors like dark chocolate, coffee and anise. ABV- 9.2%
Smitty's Review: Sampled at about 50 degrees. Pours a viscous black with a one finger brown head. Strong dark chocolate aroma, with hints of mild coffee and cream. Full bodied with a feathery carbonation and slightly creamy mouth feel. Initial flavor of molasses and dark fruits that transitions to notes of black licorice, mild coffee, and non-aggressive bittering hops. Finishes with a hint of yeast, red wine, and a tad amount of alcohol. This is solid Imperial Stout without going into "extreme beer" territory. I would even go so far to say that this is sessionable for experienced craft beer drinkers, especially since this beer is sold in 12 ounce bottles (as opposed to 22 ounce "bombers"). For those with more of a pedestrian palate, this would be an ideal gateway beer into the Imperial Stout style.
Recommended Food Pairing: chocolate, creamy desserts, smoked foods, chocolate cake
Where To Buy: Frugal MacDoogal (liquor store side), Midtown Wine & Spirits, and most liquor stores that carry specialty beers.
