Russian Imperial Stout (RIS) Virgin

Once you go Black you dont go Back..Cheers

 

My first ever was The Sammy Smith version, which would hardly be considered "Imperial" by today's standards, but it's very tastey and there's no chance of it going to your head so fast. However, my very BIG RIS was Old Rasputin, and it's been a favorite goto beer ever since.

 

I don't mean to be picky here, but people are confusing two different styles here, probably two of the most often- confused styles that end up getting lumped together. The OP asked about Russian Imperial Stouts. There have been several brews suggested here that are actually American Double/Imperial Stouts including NH Night Tripper, Founders Breakfast Stout, and Alesmith Speedway Stout. Although both styles are among my favorites American Double/Imperial Stouts differ significantly from Russian Imperial Stouts (RIS) much in the same way as American IPA's when compared to English IPA's.

As far as RIS's I'd like to add Cigar City Marshall Zhukov as one of the best examples of the style. It can be ordered online since the OP is in MN. Also, Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout is a very affordable and readily available seasonal. Avery's The Czar is far too often overlooked, again a very afforable readily available delicious seasonal ($6 for a bomber). +1 to DH Plead the 5th, Old Rasputin, Great Divide Yeti, OB Ten Fidy Stone IRS, Founders RIS, and Great Lakes Blackout Stout.

 

I think Samuel Smith's (UK) Imperial Stout is great too, although it's not like US RISs which tend to be sweet, coffee-like, etc.

I tried a Stone RIS a few weeks ago just for the heck of it, good beer but so big IMHO it's like a whole 'nother style.

Courage (UK) also make a RIS.

 

I am no expert on RIS, but my two favorite are Stone's I.R.S and Firestone's Parabola.