Courage Imperial Russian Stout

This is the 2013 vintage of this 10.0% ABV stout. It is from Wells & Young's Brewing Company of Bedford, England. It is based on a recipe originally brewed in 1795 for Catherine the Great of Russia. Its best by date is in 2026.

The beer pours absolutely black. There is a thick head of light brown foam that leaves extremely thick lacing down the glass. The aroma is dark roasted malt with a tangy mineral-like quality and a smokey, peaty note. The taste follows the aromas, and adds in a fruity element, like dark berries or cherries covered in very dark chocolate. It is full bodied, rich and elegant. The finish is moderately bitter with a long, lingering aftertaste of dark chocolate and fruit. I wish I had 13 bottles of this to drink one each year for 13 years.