Review – Rogue XS Imperial Stout 2006
Rogue: Imperial Stout, also known as “Russian Imperial Stout” is a variety of ale that was originally brewed in England for export to the court of the Tsar of Russia. It is highly hopped and has a very high alcohol content intended to preserve it during long trips and to provide a more bracing drink against cold climates. The colour is very dark, nearly opaque black. Imperial stout exhibits enormously powerful malt flavours, hints of dark fruits, and is often quite dry.
Rogue XS Imperial Stout 2006 – Swing top 750ml porcelain bottle poured into a New Belgium beer glass. 11.0% abv.
Appearance: Jet brown with a chocolaty brown cap of foam. Very active and sudsy.
Aroma: Dark and milk chocolate and a splash of booze.
Taste: Dark, semi-sweet chocolate, and a bit of spicy hops.
Mouthfeel: Silky and warm. Imperial Stouts always strike me as silky, within varying degrees, and this one is no exception.
Overall: My first impression was its freshness. I am guessing the good capping and porcelain bottling preserved this beer more than normal packaging would have. I loved the head, loved the flavor and nose. This is a top notch beer, and dare I say worth the $13.00 a bottle.
