Smuttynose Imperial Stout

Smuttynose Brewing Company Imperial Stout comes with the instructions “Drink it fresh for the hops or cellar it for a refined malty experience.” The ever-generous New Hampshire brewers shipped us three, so we’ll be doing both and keeping one as a backup, because you never know what life is going to throw your way.

The taste of this Russian Imp is surprising, with hops coming through far more than expected for a balanced bitterness on both ends of the spectrum.

And surprise again! At a deceptive 10.5%, it’s powerful even when split four ways. Which is why I’ve suddenly sprouted flippers and the office floor has turned to coffee beans which caress my blubber chassis. If Smuttynose Imperial Stout were a notary public, I’d be its “seal” of approval.

-- Jim Dykstra