Little Czar
Hi-Fi Brewing Co.

 

 

Poured into a Reuben's Brew snifter. Pours pitch black with a thin, light brown head that dissipates to a ring around the glass. Rich aroma of toasted malt, chocolate with hints of vanilla and fresh coffee. Flavor follows, dark and toasted malt, cocoa, starting somewhat smooth, mellow and unassuming, but really opens up in the finish with nicely balanced malt, chocolate, fresh coffee and a light touch of grassy hops. Medium bodied with light creaminess. A somewhat unusual stout. The brewer told me that they were attempting to produce a stout with the rich flavor and body of a Russian imperial stout, but at a more moderate and drinkable ABV. I think they really pulled it off here. The flavor is rich malt with very nicely balanced coffee and chocolate notes. I found this to be very drinkable and satisfying. I can't think of anything else available this rich at this ABV. I was uncertain whether to list this as a Russian imperial stout or English stout; its flavor profile is definitely the former, but it is quite a bit below the bottom range of alcohol for the latter style. Call it a RIS / English stout hybrid. Nicely done in any case. These guys are too far off my beaten path or I would pick this up frequently.