North Coast Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout
Today I have a brew that I have heard referenced a number of times but never had the opportunity to enjoy, in fact it is only the second beer from North Coast Brewing I have ventured to try. But while surfing the shelves of Henn Lake looking for something I hadn’t tried before it called out to me and I couldn’t help but give it a chance. I wasn’t the biggest fan of their Acme Pale Ale [review] because it had more pale malt and citrus flavors than I prefer but I’ve heard good things about many of their other ales and I must say Old Rasputin meets the grade. Pours a completely opaque dark black color producing a solid four fingers of creamy dark brown head that takes many minutes to evaporate leaving a nice ring of lacing around the glass. Aroma is intense, sweet and malty with some caramelized notes and a hint of alcohol similar to that of red wine or perhaps a fine scotch. This is one serious stout. Nice dark malty flavors are what this beer is all about but it has so much more. Beneath the roasted flavors are many nice pitted fruit flavors, cherry and plum stick out most to me. Body is a bit heavy as is the mouthfeel but it is still smooth and drinkable. Though this ale is a solid 9% ABV you will be hard pressed to notice aside from the aroma because of how well the sweet malt disguises it. Those who enjoy a good strong stout will certainly enjoy this brew. Give it a shot and ride your bike.
January 28th, 2009 at 10:27 am
The Old Rasputin is my favourite American Imperial Stout. It just seems to find that perfect balance between rich malts and assertive hoppiness.
Have you tried Great Divide’s Yeti Imperial Stout? I find it a pretty similar and impressive imperial.
January 28th, 2009 at 11:00 am
The Yeti is one I haven’t made it to yet though Great Divide has always impressed me and I’m sure it’s a lovely ale. I am also looking forward to trying the Oak Aged version.