Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout is perhaps one of the finest beers I've tasted. I have a small brew pub about three blocks from my home called the Engine House No. 9. They have some fine beers of their own down there and a constantly changing tap list. Last night I saw ORRIS on tap and just had to have a "mondo" pint of this delicious ale with my dinner. I had a mushroom Swiss burger with it. It probably wasn't the best of pairings as the beer totally dominated my taste buds and if by dominated, I mean it danced all over my tongue and made love to my olfactory nerves. Amaxingly, it was not served ice cold. It was almost the perfect drinking temperature - maybe a little too cool at first.
Chocolate, caramel and coffee notes were ever present in the smell and in the taste. It's rich, flavorful and strong, coming in at 9% ABV and 75 IBUs It poured opaque black with a dark tan head that lasted the whole time - phenomenal! The reviewers at Beer Advocate give it a solid A. I've also had it out of the bottle and in fact have two bottles of this magical elixer on hand.
This is another brew that might benefit from aging a few months. We'll see.
This beer is available in most states. It's a bit pricey. You'll pay what you'd expect to pay for a sixer of good beer, except it's only a four pack
I've decided to drop the cheesy hop system and just tell you that you will not be disappointed with Old Rasputin.
Cheers!
VW
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