Otter Creek Russian Imperial Stout
Otter Creek Brewing
Beer Geek Stats:
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- Style:
- Russian Imperial Stout
Ranked #406 - ABV:
- 10%
- Score:
- 90
Ranked #4,937 - Avg:
- 4.05 | pDev: 9.88%
- Reviews:
- 299
- Ratings:
- From:
- Otter Creek Brewing
- Vermont, United States
- Avail:
- Rotating
- Wants
- 46
- Gots
- 48
SCORE
90
Outstanding
90
Outstanding
Notes:
Every so often we brew this tasty treat that clocks in at 10% ABV. A silky smooth, motor-oil black pour reveals rich, roasty notes of caramel, chocolate and coffee. Like the first stouts brewed for Russian Czars, this offering is big, bold and built to last. Grab a few for the cellar, a couple for your comrades and enjoy because—like those Czars of yesteryear—this beer may be gone soon.
Reviews: 299
| Ratings: 617
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4/5 rDev -1.2%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
This was poured into a snifter. The appearance was a dark brown close to black color with a thin wisp of tan foamy head. Gentle thin lacing slides into the beer. The smell had a nice sweet to roasty blend of coffee, cocoa and a light amount of vanilla. Light bitter coffee grounds slide in underneath. The taste was mainly sweet with a nice roasty to sweet blend of the coffee to cocoa once again. A light dry sweet to roasty coffee aftertaste leads into the finish. On the palate, this one sat about a medium on the body with a fairly decent sipping quality about it. Carbonation seemed good as an RIS, as there’s enough dry and bitter roastiness on my tongue. Overall, I say this was a pretty good RIS that I would have again.
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look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
This was poured into a snifter. The appearance was a dark brown close to black color with a thin wisp of tan foamy head. Gentle thin lacing slides into the beer. The smell had a nice sweet to roasty blend of coffee, cocoa and a light amount of vanilla. Light bitter coffee grounds slide in underneath. The taste was mainly sweet with a nice roasty to sweet blend of the coffee to cocoa once again. A light dry sweet to roasty coffee aftertaste leads into the finish. On the palate, this one sat about a medium on the body with a fairly decent sipping quality about it. Carbonation seemed good as an RIS, as there’s enough dry and bitter roastiness on my tongue. Overall, I say this was a pretty good RIS that I would have again.
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4.15/5 rDev +2.5%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.25
P- Poured from a 12 oz bottle,into a large Funky Buddha snifter.No date on the bottle.
L- Thin brown head with low retention,and minimal lacing.Jet black body with no light showing through the glass.Low on carbonation.
S- On the nose I get roasted malt,with some trace noted of coffee,dark chocolate,and caramel.
T- The palate follows the nose with roasted malt and coffee up front,caramel in the middle,and dark chocolate and roasted malts on the back end.A little bit of alcohol flavor,but not bad.
F- The mouth feel is full bodied,with minimal oxidation on the tongue.Smooth on the finish,with slight alcohol warming.
O- This is a pretty damn good RIS.Not one of my favorites,but definitely up there.I would absolutely drink this one again.And if you are a Russian Imperial Stout lover like myself,I suggest you give this one a try.I just wish it had more dark fruit characteristics.Still a really good one.
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look: 3.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.25
P- Poured from a 12 oz bottle,into a large Funky Buddha snifter.No date on the bottle.
L- Thin brown head with low retention,and minimal lacing.Jet black body with no light showing through the glass.Low on carbonation.
S- On the nose I get roasted malt,with some trace noted of coffee,dark chocolate,and caramel.
T- The palate follows the nose with roasted malt and coffee up front,caramel in the middle,and dark chocolate and roasted malts on the back end.A little bit of alcohol flavor,but not bad.
F- The mouth feel is full bodied,with minimal oxidation on the tongue.Smooth on the finish,with slight alcohol warming.
O- This is a pretty damn good RIS.Not one of my favorites,but definitely up there.I would absolutely drink this one again.And if you are a Russian Imperial Stout lover like myself,I suggest you give this one a try.I just wish it had more dark fruit characteristics.Still a really good one.
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4.08/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.25
Pours an opaque black. Coming out of the bottle there is no visible head, however, once all contents have been emptied, a nice tan foam head suddenly materializes. It soon disapates into a very thin collar with some lacing.
The nose is predominantly sweet and comprised of chocolate, vanilla and dark fruit. There is a roasted malt, toasted dark bread, and subtle coffee presence that compliments things nicely. There are also hints of liquorice and alcohol.
The taste mostly aligns with the nose in terms of the chocolate and dark fruit sweetness. Despite the 10% ABV, the alcohol flavor is so well masked, thus making it unique amongst other Russian Imperial Stouts I've had that can be downright boozy. There is even a nice touch of hops that provides slight bitterness, herbal qualities and balance.
Full bodied but not too thick. A cross between a sipper and something that is easy to drink. Viscuous but not too heavy. A great balance. Smooth and velvety to boot, with a soft carbonation.
A real fine RIS that is tasty, not over the top boozy and balanced.
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look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.25
Pours an opaque black. Coming out of the bottle there is no visible head, however, once all contents have been emptied, a nice tan foam head suddenly materializes. It soon disapates into a very thin collar with some lacing.
The nose is predominantly sweet and comprised of chocolate, vanilla and dark fruit. There is a roasted malt, toasted dark bread, and subtle coffee presence that compliments things nicely. There are also hints of liquorice and alcohol.
The taste mostly aligns with the nose in terms of the chocolate and dark fruit sweetness. Despite the 10% ABV, the alcohol flavor is so well masked, thus making it unique amongst other Russian Imperial Stouts I've had that can be downright boozy. There is even a nice touch of hops that provides slight bitterness, herbal qualities and balance.
Full bodied but not too thick. A cross between a sipper and something that is easy to drink. Viscuous but not too heavy. A great balance. Smooth and velvety to boot, with a soft carbonation.
A real fine RIS that is tasty, not over the top boozy and balanced.
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3.71/5 rDev -8.4%
look: 4.25 | smell: 3.25 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 3.75
Bought in Vermont at the Cold Hollow CIder Mill in Waterbury. The beer pours with a thick black appearance, brown creamy head, and eventual good, bubbly retention with some thick lacing on the sides. The aromas are attractive, though restrained, with coffee, chocolate, nuts, maybe a hint of spice like cinnamon. The taste variable included more vocal flavor attributes. This included a bitter, but buttery, chocolate flavor with a slight burnt sugar aftertaste. Mouthfeel is great with a creamy body that envelopes the ingredients and alcohol into a warm blend. Overall, not too bad, especially in terms of appearance and mouthfeel.
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look: 4.25 | smell: 3.25 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 3.75
Bought in Vermont at the Cold Hollow CIder Mill in Waterbury. The beer pours with a thick black appearance, brown creamy head, and eventual good, bubbly retention with some thick lacing on the sides. The aromas are attractive, though restrained, with coffee, chocolate, nuts, maybe a hint of spice like cinnamon. The taste variable included more vocal flavor attributes. This included a bitter, but buttery, chocolate flavor with a slight burnt sugar aftertaste. Mouthfeel is great with a creamy body that envelopes the ingredients and alcohol into a warm blend. Overall, not too bad, especially in terms of appearance and mouthfeel.
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4.2/5 rDev +3.7%
look: 4.5 | smell: 5 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
This beer poured nicely into my glass - the black liquid rolling out and bringing a little beige froth that ends in a thick ring. The rign easily grows thicker with a little agitation. The body itself seems black, but later in the glass, it does appear to lean a little more brown with a fair amount of clarity.
Nose is quite nice, powdered cocoa cocoa and dark roast brewed coffee. Subsequent whiffs bring the chocolate the brewers' notes talk about, mainly in brownie form, maybe with walnuts, even. Other notes include a little licorice spice and a little tang. Some of the scents turn a little woody later in the beer.
The taste is mostly expected. Bitter, bitter chocolate and coffee notes hit me first. These seem very harsh, and add to a rough feel in my first sips. The strong bitterness is really the dominating sensation throughout the pour. It takes on slightly different variations as the beer warms, from chocolate to unsweetened coffee to dark-skinned nuts to cut wood resin. These aren't distinct, but all impressions I get.
I wasn't thoroughly enjoying the rough bitterness feel of this beer, but appreciated the flavor sensations it brought. The nose was very nice. If you like strongly bitter stouts, I think this will be to your liking. If you like a little malt sweetness and a smoother feel, this one may be one to be cautious about - and definitely let it warm a bunch.
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look: 4.5 | smell: 5 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
This beer poured nicely into my glass - the black liquid rolling out and bringing a little beige froth that ends in a thick ring. The rign easily grows thicker with a little agitation. The body itself seems black, but later in the glass, it does appear to lean a little more brown with a fair amount of clarity.
Nose is quite nice, powdered cocoa cocoa and dark roast brewed coffee. Subsequent whiffs bring the chocolate the brewers' notes talk about, mainly in brownie form, maybe with walnuts, even. Other notes include a little licorice spice and a little tang. Some of the scents turn a little woody later in the beer.
The taste is mostly expected. Bitter, bitter chocolate and coffee notes hit me first. These seem very harsh, and add to a rough feel in my first sips. The strong bitterness is really the dominating sensation throughout the pour. It takes on slightly different variations as the beer warms, from chocolate to unsweetened coffee to dark-skinned nuts to cut wood resin. These aren't distinct, but all impressions I get.
I wasn't thoroughly enjoying the rough bitterness feel of this beer, but appreciated the flavor sensations it brought. The nose was very nice. If you like strongly bitter stouts, I think this will be to your liking. If you like a little malt sweetness and a smoother feel, this one may be one to be cautious about - and definitely let it warm a bunch.
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4.18/5 rDev +3.2%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
snagged a bottle locally. big roastiness with a sludge chocolate undertone. nose leads with crisp chary roast...a bite of winter. flavor follows but leads with chocolate...chocolate speaks more as the brew warms. good beer.
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look: 4.25 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
snagged a bottle locally. big roastiness with a sludge chocolate undertone. nose leads with crisp chary roast...a bite of winter. flavor follows but leads with chocolate...chocolate speaks more as the brew warms. good beer.
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4.48/5 rDev +10.6%
look: 4.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4.75 | overall: 4.5
Poured slowly down the middle at almost room temperature into a 16 oz snifter. Pours a slick black with a 3 finger light mocha head that clings to the sides of the glass like a fat kid holds a Charleston Chew.
Smell is roasted expresso, toffee, vanilla bean, anise, leather, caramel, and some hints of booze.
Taste follows toffee, chocolate covered coffee beans, anise, vanilla, leather, caramel, and some warming alcohol.
Mouthfeel is almost large, silky smooth with a little heat from the alcohol, a little chewy, moderate carbonation, definitely on the dryer side, and way too drinkable for 10% ABV.
Overall this is a serious stout, very complex from start to finish. Well done Otter Creek.
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look: 4.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4.75 | overall: 4.5
Poured slowly down the middle at almost room temperature into a 16 oz snifter. Pours a slick black with a 3 finger light mocha head that clings to the sides of the glass like a fat kid holds a Charleston Chew.
Smell is roasted expresso, toffee, vanilla bean, anise, leather, caramel, and some hints of booze.
Taste follows toffee, chocolate covered coffee beans, anise, vanilla, leather, caramel, and some warming alcohol.
Mouthfeel is almost large, silky smooth with a little heat from the alcohol, a little chewy, moderate carbonation, definitely on the dryer side, and way too drinkable for 10% ABV.
Overall this is a serious stout, very complex from start to finish. Well done Otter Creek.
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3.98/5 rDev -1.7%
look: 4.25 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
Poured into a Duvel tulip. No readable freshness date.
A- Pours a fully opaque black color with a 1/2 inch medium brown head that retains well before becoming a thick ring around the edge of the glass and a mostly full sheet of sheer surface foam. Semi-resilient lacing leaves tiny clots behind.
S- Big roast character that's slightly sweet but still also somewhat hoppy. There's also this slight chemical aroma that's a bit off-putting.
T- Nice rush of dark roast, dark chocolate and char and then there's that damn plastic-y thing again. Once the palate acclimates it fades but there seems to be something a bit off here. The good amount of sweetness is helping though. Alcohol is masked quite well. Coffee aftertaste.
M- Thick and creamy with medium carbonation and a full body.
O- Disregarding the initial astringent aroma and flavor, this is a very good RIS with great drinkability and deep flavors.
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look: 4.25 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
Poured into a Duvel tulip. No readable freshness date.
A- Pours a fully opaque black color with a 1/2 inch medium brown head that retains well before becoming a thick ring around the edge of the glass and a mostly full sheet of sheer surface foam. Semi-resilient lacing leaves tiny clots behind.
S- Big roast character that's slightly sweet but still also somewhat hoppy. There's also this slight chemical aroma that's a bit off-putting.
T- Nice rush of dark roast, dark chocolate and char and then there's that damn plastic-y thing again. Once the palate acclimates it fades but there seems to be something a bit off here. The good amount of sweetness is helping though. Alcohol is masked quite well. Coffee aftertaste.
M- Thick and creamy with medium carbonation and a full body.
O- Disregarding the initial astringent aroma and flavor, this is a very good RIS with great drinkability and deep flavors.
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4.65/5 rDev +14.8%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.75 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.5
Delicious! Black pour with lasting, clingy brown foam. Aroma is rich, with lots of roast and dark cocoa. Flavor is similar - very roasty, but never too bitter, with lots of chocolate notes and a mild sweetness mid-sip. Incredibly smooth from start to very clean finish, with just a slight lingering cocoa. Easily the best RIS I've had.
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look: 4.25 | smell: 4.75 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.5
Delicious! Black pour with lasting, clingy brown foam. Aroma is rich, with lots of roast and dark cocoa. Flavor is similar - very roasty, but never too bitter, with lots of chocolate notes and a mild sweetness mid-sip. Incredibly smooth from start to very clean finish, with just a slight lingering cocoa. Easily the best RIS I've had.
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3.96/5 rDev -2.2%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
OTTER CREEK RUSSIAN IMPERIAL STOUT 2/2/16
Poured from the 12 oz. bottle into a Tree House stemmed tulip.
a: Opaque black with a hint of clear ruby at the very bottom. Half finger thick tan head receded to thin surface foam and spotty lacing.
s: Primarily chocolate.
t: Dark roasty malt with dark chocolate notes and a moderate bite which lingers in the back of the throat along with a little throat burn. Roasty malt finish. The chocolate becomes more prominant later.
m; Medium, very good body and loads of carbonation tingle.
o; A flavorful RIS which nicely covers its high ABV.
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look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
OTTER CREEK RUSSIAN IMPERIAL STOUT 2/2/16
Poured from the 12 oz. bottle into a Tree House stemmed tulip.
a: Opaque black with a hint of clear ruby at the very bottom. Half finger thick tan head receded to thin surface foam and spotty lacing.
s: Primarily chocolate.
t: Dark roasty malt with dark chocolate notes and a moderate bite which lingers in the back of the throat along with a little throat burn. Roasty malt finish. The chocolate becomes more prominant later.
m; Medium, very good body and loads of carbonation tingle.
o; A flavorful RIS which nicely covers its high ABV.
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4.39/5 rDev +8.4%
look: 4.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
Mouthfeel is abit light for Russian imperial which honestly I kind of like
Very easy drinking Russian imperial coffee chocolate are present slight caramel like advertised
It poured great too with wonderful aroma very enjoyable deserves an outstanding
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look: 4.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
Mouthfeel is abit light for Russian imperial which honestly I kind of like
Very easy drinking Russian imperial coffee chocolate are present slight caramel like advertised
It poured great too with wonderful aroma very enjoyable deserves an outstanding
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4.04/5 rDev -0.2%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
A: Pours a pitch black color with 2 fingers of head that slowly fades down to a cent cap
S: Roasted malts, dark fruits, and some cocoa stands out. Some anise in the back
T: Follows the nose, with quite a bit more emphasis on the anise. Starts off with some roast, coffee, and cocoa before the dark fruits and anise kick in with some force. Finishes with light bitterness and roast, as well as lingering anise
M: Medium-full bodied with moderate carbonation. Quite smooth
O: A solid RIS that is layered nicely. Definitely hits on both the malty side as well as the fruity side. Very easy to drink for double digit abv. A great candidate for aging
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look: 4.25 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
A: Pours a pitch black color with 2 fingers of head that slowly fades down to a cent cap
S: Roasted malts, dark fruits, and some cocoa stands out. Some anise in the back
T: Follows the nose, with quite a bit more emphasis on the anise. Starts off with some roast, coffee, and cocoa before the dark fruits and anise kick in with some force. Finishes with light bitterness and roast, as well as lingering anise
M: Medium-full bodied with moderate carbonation. Quite smooth
O: A solid RIS that is layered nicely. Definitely hits on both the malty side as well as the fruity side. Very easy to drink for double digit abv. A great candidate for aging
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4/5 rDev -1.2%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Another good if unexceptional Russian imperial stout. Black-bodied, full-feeling, and mildly carbonated, with aromas and flavors of espresso and bittersweet chocolate. Some molasses and char linger after the finish, along with a slight stickiness.
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look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Another good if unexceptional Russian imperial stout. Black-bodied, full-feeling, and mildly carbonated, with aromas and flavors of espresso and bittersweet chocolate. Some molasses and char linger after the finish, along with a slight stickiness.
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4.51/5 rDev +11.4%
look: 4.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
The color is black. Even held to the light none shines through. A thick tan head dissipates to a thin ring around the glass. Aroma of sweet aromatic tobacco and raisins. Taste of leather pepper and steel. As much as I enjoy their new IPAs I believe this beer is bigger, and holds a more special place. I love this beer.
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look: 4.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.5
The color is black. Even held to the light none shines through. A thick tan head dissipates to a thin ring around the glass. Aroma of sweet aromatic tobacco and raisins. Taste of leather pepper and steel. As much as I enjoy their new IPAs I believe this beer is bigger, and holds a more special place. I love this beer.
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3.98/5 rDev -1.7%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
Newly bottled 2015 it pours a rich black color with a nice creamy tan head. Lots of roasted malts in the nose just the way an RIS is supposed to be. The flavor is strong with some chocolate and coffee overtones. The mouthfeel to me is just a little thin. This is a good drinkable RIS.
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look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
Newly bottled 2015 it pours a rich black color with a nice creamy tan head. Lots of roasted malts in the nose just the way an RIS is supposed to be. The flavor is strong with some chocolate and coffee overtones. The mouthfeel to me is just a little thin. This is a good drinkable RIS.
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3.66/5 rDev -9.6%
look: 4 | smell: 3.5 | taste: 3.5 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 3.75
L: Very dark, and very opaque. Normally you can see through a little bit of the edges of the beer, but not htis one. Poured a 2 finger dark brown head that settled down, leaves some nice lace.
S: Sweet, definately a bit of milk chocolate in there. Only the faintest hit of ethanol. Somewhat straightforward aroma.
T: For a 10% beer, it is remarkably smooth. Once again it is very sweet. There is definately a burnt quality to this one, chocolate and a bit of coffee. Also some dark fruit qualities (think apricot or fig) as well as brown sugar.
F: Very heavy body but as smooth. Goes back easy. Carbonation is spot on.
O: Good, not great. My issues with the beer are minor, chiefly being that it is a little sweet for my taste and not incredibly complex. But nonetheless I would recommend this and drink it again.
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look: 4 | smell: 3.5 | taste: 3.5 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 3.75
L: Very dark, and very opaque. Normally you can see through a little bit of the edges of the beer, but not htis one. Poured a 2 finger dark brown head that settled down, leaves some nice lace.
S: Sweet, definately a bit of milk chocolate in there. Only the faintest hit of ethanol. Somewhat straightforward aroma.
T: For a 10% beer, it is remarkably smooth. Once again it is very sweet. There is definately a burnt quality to this one, chocolate and a bit of coffee. Also some dark fruit qualities (think apricot or fig) as well as brown sugar.
F: Very heavy body but as smooth. Goes back easy. Carbonation is spot on.
O: Good, not great. My issues with the beer are minor, chiefly being that it is a little sweet for my taste and not incredibly complex. But nonetheless I would recommend this and drink it again.
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4.09/5 rDev +1%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
No bottle date visible, but I know it is at least 2014.
Pours pitch black and viscous. Not much head on mine, even with an aggressive pour. It does have a nice tan ring that leaves some lacing.
Smells mainly of dark roasted malts and chocolate with a hint of tobacco.
Lots of tobacco and some licorice up front that is too strong for me. However, as this beer begins to warm up, the almost overbearing tobacco flavor starts to meld nicely. Now the malts really start to shine, complemented by some cocoa and slightly bitter dark chocolate and molasses. Decent bitterness with an ashy/charred and roasted coffee beans aftertaste that is balanced by some brown sugar like sweetness. Alcohol is not noticeable.
Not Ten Fidy viscous, but close. Very full bodied and creamy.
This is an excellent example of a RIS. It reminds me of an Expedition stout after about a year of aging.
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look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
No bottle date visible, but I know it is at least 2014.
Pours pitch black and viscous. Not much head on mine, even with an aggressive pour. It does have a nice tan ring that leaves some lacing.
Smells mainly of dark roasted malts and chocolate with a hint of tobacco.
Lots of tobacco and some licorice up front that is too strong for me. However, as this beer begins to warm up, the almost overbearing tobacco flavor starts to meld nicely. Now the malts really start to shine, complemented by some cocoa and slightly bitter dark chocolate and molasses. Decent bitterness with an ashy/charred and roasted coffee beans aftertaste that is balanced by some brown sugar like sweetness. Alcohol is not noticeable.
Not Ten Fidy viscous, but close. Very full bodied and creamy.
This is an excellent example of a RIS. It reminds me of an Expedition stout after about a year of aging.
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3.69/5 rDev -8.9%
look: 5 | smell: 3.5 | taste: 3.5 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 4
At first it didn't look like I was going to get much head at all but I was quickly surprised as two plus fingers of caramel brown head climbs over the edge of the glass and onto the table. head has great retention and leaves scattered lace as it slowly fades. Body is pure blackness like used motor oil. Nose is very robust and smokey with some coco based malt notes that fight to come through. Very meaty smell. With first sip the smoke and roast feel is first up front but not overly dominant. Dark, bitter, and slightly soured chocolate notes play mid palate. The slight soured feel is little off for me. This, bitter and rather dry on the mouthfeel. Drinkability is not bad for the style but a little sweetness would be nice.
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look: 5 | smell: 3.5 | taste: 3.5 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 4
At first it didn't look like I was going to get much head at all but I was quickly surprised as two plus fingers of caramel brown head climbs over the edge of the glass and onto the table. head has great retention and leaves scattered lace as it slowly fades. Body is pure blackness like used motor oil. Nose is very robust and smokey with some coco based malt notes that fight to come through. Very meaty smell. With first sip the smoke and roast feel is first up front but not overly dominant. Dark, bitter, and slightly soured chocolate notes play mid palate. The slight soured feel is little off for me. This, bitter and rather dry on the mouthfeel. Drinkability is not bad for the style but a little sweetness would be nice.
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4.14/5 rDev +2.2%
look: 4.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25
Bottle from February 2013. Pours like motor oil, opaque with the slightest hint of deep chestnut brown around the edges. The head was dark khaki while it lasted. Very rich smelling, bold dark roasted malts, an rich earthiness, faint touch of booze still, dark fruits, licorice, and bitter chocolate. Lots of roasted malts in the flavor, almost burnt, stale hop earthiness, charred mocha with thick creamy mouthfeel and mild carbonation. Would need to try this fresh but an extremely well crafted RIS and a bit underrated, in my opinion.
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look: 4.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25
Bottle from February 2013. Pours like motor oil, opaque with the slightest hint of deep chestnut brown around the edges. The head was dark khaki while it lasted. Very rich smelling, bold dark roasted malts, an rich earthiness, faint touch of booze still, dark fruits, licorice, and bitter chocolate. Lots of roasted malts in the flavor, almost burnt, stale hop earthiness, charred mocha with thick creamy mouthfeel and mild carbonation. Would need to try this fresh but an extremely well crafted RIS and a bit underrated, in my opinion.
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4.17/5 rDev +3%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25
From BeerAdvocate Magazine #74 (Mar 2013):
A massive brew that ends up being a sheer pleasure to sip. A resurrected beer that was last brewed back in 2009, not to be brewed again until next winter … perhaps they should rethink that, as it will be missed. If you are lucky enough to find some, you’ll want to save a bottle or two, as the brewery states it is a great candidate for cellaring.
STYLE: Russian Imperial Stout
ABV: 10.0%
AVAILABILITY: Rotating
LOOK: Awesome brown head, pitch-black hue
SMELL: Chocolaty, charcoal, dark roast coffee, creamy, blackberries, molasses, hermit cookies, alcohol
TASTE: Bold roasty character, dark chocolate, burnt sugar, espresso, dark fruit, slow alcoholic warmth, underlying hoppiness, fudge brownies, faint oily resin, bittersweet finish
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look: 4.25 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25
From BeerAdvocate Magazine #74 (Mar 2013):
A massive brew that ends up being a sheer pleasure to sip. A resurrected beer that was last brewed back in 2009, not to be brewed again until next winter … perhaps they should rethink that, as it will be missed. If you are lucky enough to find some, you’ll want to save a bottle or two, as the brewery states it is a great candidate for cellaring.
STYLE: Russian Imperial Stout
ABV: 10.0%
AVAILABILITY: Rotating
LOOK: Awesome brown head, pitch-black hue
SMELL: Chocolaty, charcoal, dark roast coffee, creamy, blackberries, molasses, hermit cookies, alcohol
TASTE: Bold roasty character, dark chocolate, burnt sugar, espresso, dark fruit, slow alcoholic warmth, underlying hoppiness, fudge brownies, faint oily resin, bittersweet finish
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4.24/5 rDev +4.7%
look: 4 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.25
I was pleasantly surprised by this RIS. It pours a deep mahogany color with two fingers of mocha-colored head and lacing. It smells of roasted malt, coffee, chocolate, raisin, and cherry. The taste largely follows the nose. It is currently one of my favorites. I've stocked up and look forward to seeing how it ages.
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look: 4 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.25
I was pleasantly surprised by this RIS. It pours a deep mahogany color with two fingers of mocha-colored head and lacing. It smells of roasted malt, coffee, chocolate, raisin, and cherry. The taste largely follows the nose. It is currently one of my favorites. I've stocked up and look forward to seeing how it ages.
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4.24/5 rDev +4.7%
look: 4.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25
Poured into a goblet type glass. Pours like motor oil; dark and heavy with limited carbonation. Roasty and Rich, with a velvety smooth mouthfeel. Boozy undertones but readily drinkable for a 10%. Aged two years makes it devine.
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look: 4.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4.25
Poured into a goblet type glass. Pours like motor oil; dark and heavy with limited carbonation. Roasty and Rich, with a velvety smooth mouthfeel. Boozy undertones but readily drinkable for a 10%. Aged two years makes it devine.
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3.81/5 rDev -5.9%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
Poured from a bottle dated 123112, into a modified tulip glass.
A - No light gets though, dark and deep. Gentle parade of fine carbonation can be coaxed into a thin cap. Laced with the finest of threads is the only trace remaining.
S - Bakers chocolate, dried tobacco, plums, hint of charred wood, and mint. Leaves me a little intrigued.
T - Surprisingly smokey, that chocolate from the nose is buried way behind, dark fruits,
and an earthy roasted malt body. There is a piney bitterness that exits leaving that lonely bakers for dessert.
M - Round and smooth to begin, the fringes of the palate, take the heat at mid sip, Mouth is fully coated at the exit, leaving a strong earthy lingers. At this point the 10% ABV is quite present with that alcohol cooking off.
O - This Stout is well constructed, a little confounding. A limited offering that could
be touched up some. I am glad to have some left.
Cheers all
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look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
Poured from a bottle dated 123112, into a modified tulip glass.
A - No light gets though, dark and deep. Gentle parade of fine carbonation can be coaxed into a thin cap. Laced with the finest of threads is the only trace remaining.
S - Bakers chocolate, dried tobacco, plums, hint of charred wood, and mint. Leaves me a little intrigued.
T - Surprisingly smokey, that chocolate from the nose is buried way behind, dark fruits,
and an earthy roasted malt body. There is a piney bitterness that exits leaving that lonely bakers for dessert.
M - Round and smooth to begin, the fringes of the palate, take the heat at mid sip, Mouth is fully coated at the exit, leaving a strong earthy lingers. At this point the 10% ABV is quite present with that alcohol cooking off.
O - This Stout is well constructed, a little confounding. A limited offering that could
be touched up some. I am glad to have some left.
Cheers all
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4.31/5 rDev +6.4%
look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.25
Bottled in December 2012
Appearance - almost jet black body with a small amount of mahogany head
Smell - dark chocolate, fudge, espresso, roasted malts, black licorice
Taste - dark chocolate, fudge, espresso, roasted malts, black licorice
Mouthfeel - medium plus bodied, high carbonation, chocolate sweetness upfront, roasty and sweet in the finish, good bitterness in the finish as well
Overall - pretty good eample of an RIS, certainly worth a try for fans of the style
Price point - $2.75/12 oz single
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look: 4.25 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.25
Bottled in December 2012
Appearance - almost jet black body with a small amount of mahogany head
Smell - dark chocolate, fudge, espresso, roasted malts, black licorice
Taste - dark chocolate, fudge, espresso, roasted malts, black licorice
Mouthfeel - medium plus bodied, high carbonation, chocolate sweetness upfront, roasty and sweet in the finish, good bitterness in the finish as well
Overall - pretty good eample of an RIS, certainly worth a try for fans of the style
Price point - $2.75/12 oz single
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3.75/5 rDev -7.4%
Overall pretty good and enjoyable Slight bitterness to it which may be why I don't rate it slightly higher.
Very dark with nice chocolate head. Nice malty texture and smooth thick but not syrupy
Very drinkable and goes nicely with a cigar
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Overall pretty good and enjoyable Slight bitterness to it which may be why I don't rate it slightly higher.
Very dark with nice chocolate head. Nice malty texture and smooth thick but not syrupy
Very drinkable and goes nicely with a cigar
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Otter Creek Russian Imperial Stout from Otter Creek Brewing
Beer rating:
90 out of
100 with
617 ratings
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