Imperia
Jackrabbit Brewing Company

An impressive effort from a micro-micro; an experienced brewer without much distribution, apparently.
Looks like the Classic RIS and the same for the Smells, albeit a bit on the chocolatey side.
Tastes have a bit too much bitter for me, although I would not have guessed it was as high as the 60 IBU per the label.
Feel is not particularly rich. Although Jackrabbit does a good job of concealing the alcohol.

Now 8 years old, Jackrabbit did not fall into the slump of depending on the IPA to stay in business. Their most BA reviewed ale is a saison. Imperia is not a first cut on the RIS. Since I will go home to the Midwest and probably not taste Jackrabbit's brews again, I regret that I didn't taste their saison. Maybe I will get lucky.

This ale pours an intense black color with a frothy tan head that has lasting endurance. The aroma is of deep chocolate and hints of expresso. Once it hits the tongue, it’s sharp bitterness and sweet roasted malt character combine to offer a mild tang. Then opens up to a smooth, bitter chocolate flavor much like the chocolate you would bake with. Overall, a nice example of what quality malts and abundant use of hops can offer.

 

 

look is extremely black with a half inch of brown head.
smell is extremely coffee forward with some nuttiness. it kind of smells like a BBA stout.
taste is coffee with quite a bite of boozieness. not bad.
feel is good. a good amount of carbonation.
overall, not a bad RIS.