Review – Stone Imperial Russian Stout 2004

Retro Press Release from Stone Brewing – San Marcos, CA — June 14th is the highly anticipated release date for the 2004 edition of Stone Imperial Russian Stout. Stone Brewing has a well-known reputation for brewing big, aggressive beers to the pinnacle of the brewer’s art, and Stone Imperial Russian Stout ranks at the top of that list. That is if you listen to enthusiasts.
“…Stone Imperial Russian Stout is intensely aromatic, with notes of anise, black currants, coffee, roastiness and alcohol. The beer’s label warns the potential imbiber to “expect this mysterious brew to pour like Siberian crude and taste even heavier!”

Stone Brewing Co. – Stone Imperial Russian Stout – On tap poured into a 10 oz. taster – 10.8% abv.

Appearance: Jet back with a pin stripe of tan at the top of the glass.
Aroma: Coffee, chocolate, vanilla and a hint of smoke.

Mouthfeel: Silky!!

Overall: Beautiful! Nice levels of chocolate and vanilla came through as the hopping of yesteryear subsided.