Polar Night

Imperial Stout | Year-Round | United States

By Jim Koebel

Judges Rating: 91
Aroma: 24
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 34
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 17

This Imperial Stout begins with rich chocolate and roasted, fruity malt aromas. As it warms, it takes on a low sweetness with nutty, ashy, and coffee characteristics. This almost-black beer is opaque, even when held up to the light, and it carries a large brown head with very good retention. This beer tastes roasty initially, then gives way to moderately strong earthy hop flavors but without the complexities found in the aroma. It is very dry with moderate body and carbonation, yet the combination of roast and hop bitterness never becomes astringent. Displaying an appetizing aroma, this Imperial Stout creates a strong first impression that will win many drinkers over.