Samuel Smith’s Imperial Stout – Samuel Smith Old Brewery

Poured from a 550 into a snifter.

A-Deep black with a creamy tan head that only comes up with a vigourous pour, but settles rapidly without much lacing. Ruby amber highlights when held to the light.

S-Semi sweet roasted chicory, bakers chocolate, coffee, licorice and molasses.

T-A creamy carryover from the nose with a well balanced hop finish that brings a bit of anise to the aftertaste. There are many big stouts that taste better than this, but I can't think of any that taste this good at 7%. This packs a huge flavor and complexity for a relatively low ABV, and I daresay nearly as much enjoyment as some of the more powereful examples of this style. I love a beer that lets me drink more of it. Well done.

M-Medium plus, nice and creamy...well balanced carbonation.

D-An extremely drinkable stout that is readily available. I normally like my stouts strong, powereful, dark and thick, but this is such a satisfying brew at a lower octane. I'm usually not a big fan of Samuel Smiths or English beers in general as they seem tepid in comparison to the wonderful availabilities here in the States, but this is one to keep on the list. I'm not abandoning my Ten Fidy, my Raspy or my Stone RIS, but this is very worthy.

Serving type: bottle

Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout - Samuel Smith Old Brewery, 7.0 out of 10 based on 1 rating