Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout Brewed by North Coast Brewing Company Fort Bragg, CA

Produced in the tradition of 18th Century English brewers who supplied the court of Russia's Catherine the Great, Old Rasputin seems to develop a cult following wherever it goes. It's a rich, intense brew with big complex flavors and a warming finish. ABV: 9%. Bitterness: 75 IBUs
     

    
Beer Review by Beer Advocate
Appearance: Pours an opaque black with 3 fingers of light brown head. Great head retention for 9%. Has thick rings of webbed lacing.

Aroma: Big, sweet dark roasted malts aromas waft up. Black coffee, bitter sweet chocolate, raisin, molasses and thick caramel. Has lighter notes of concord grape and fig.

Taste: There's an initial rush of roasted barley along with raisin, prune and caramel. Mid-palate ushers in bittersweet chocolate, black coffee and overripe plum and nectarine. Finishes with a mix of chocolate mousse and creme brulee with notes of charcoal and espresso.

Mouthfeel: Medium-full bodied, smooth, creamy and sticky.

Overall: I consider this an essential RIS. An excellent interpretation and excellent beer in general. Very complex. The alcohol is expertly hidden even fresh. 
 

      
North Coast Brewing Company
A pioneer in the craft beer movement, North Coast Brewing Company opened in 1988 as a local brewpub in the historic town of Fort Bragg, located on California’s Mendocino Coast. Under the leadership of Brewmaster Mark Ruedrich, the brewery has developed a strong reputation for quality having won more than 70 awards in national and international competitions. In addition to Red Seal Ale, Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout, Scrimshaw Pilsner, and other fine North Coast brands, the brewery has resurrected the old Acme label with a heritage dating back to the San Francisco of the 1860’s.