In the world of American Russian Imperial Stouts, there are many notable versions, from right across the USA. The first one that really came to my attention, via chatting to beer geeks around Toronto and reading threads on beer forums, was North Coast Brewing’s Old Rasputin. Aside from the awesomeness of the name, it was regularly referred to in reverential terms that enticed me, to say the least. This is not a beer you can get at the LCBO, even seasonally. However, Gatineau isn’t that far away, and while I would never ever endorse transporting alcohol across a provincial border (even if the law against it is being contested as against the charter), I will mention in passing that it is a beer available in Quebec, which geographically is curious. It would have to go over or around Ontario to get there. No matter, let’s assume you find yourself presented with an opportunity to drink Old Rasputin. Here is why you should:
Old Rasputin - North Coast Brewing Co.
From a 12oz (USA ISB) brown bottle with no freshness date I could find, Old Rasputin pours a deep black with traces of brown at the edges. A huge tan head dropped to a nice 1/2″ dense film that lingered and laced the glass nicely. Aroma is lovely, burnt sugar, rum, chocolate, hints of coffee and some spicy hops. There is a heap of dry cocoa and coffee on the palate, which becomes clearly espresso as the beer warms a bit. The sweet notes move into a supporting role in the taste. Burnt sugar and smoke mingle nicely under the bitterness, with a big dose of hops really exploding on the back of my tongue. It’s surprisingly not sweet, with only the slightest tinge of sugar on the tip of my tongue. The beer is nicely weighty on the palate, both heavy bodied, and boozy hot, making it a real mouthful. Or sipful, if you’re the moderate type. As with many Russian Imperial Stouts, this would make a great dessert beer. Maybe with a nice dense chocolate cake, with some loose whipped cream on it, perhaps scented with orange peel. Also, as per the style, it is definitely a beer that should be served on the warm side. And one to savour. Linger at the table, engage in discussion, eat some more cake. Sounds like a perfect winter tableau to me.
Cheers, North Coast Brewing!
About the Brewery
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.
These exceptional beers are available in 47 states now and also are exported to Europe and the Pacific Rim.
