Parabola
Parabola began in 2005 as a component of the first Anniversary Ale blend and has been released on its own as an annual vintage ever since. Each year the imperial stout rests about twelve months in bourbon barrels; the 2026 vintage used a blend of ten- and nine-year-old barrels. Black cherry, dark chocolate and fresh coffee lead, followed by vanilla, tobacco leaf and toasted coconut from the wood. The body is dense and chewy, and the finish is warming with oaky caramel and fine tannins.
Tasting Notes
AI-generated sensory profile for Parabola
Slightly warmer than you might expect. 10–13°C lets the roasted malt, chocolate and coffee notes open up fully.
The classic — versatile, comfortable to hold and keeps the beer cool. No frills, no distractions: just the beer.
Can be cellared 2–5 years. Develops dark fruit, leather and port-like complexity with age.
More from Firestone Walker Brewing Company
About Russian Imperial Stout
Style guide · what to expect · how to find alternatives
What is a Russian Imperial Stout?
Stouts are dark ales with roasted barley character, 4–8% ABV and IBU 25–45. Expect coffee, dark chocolate and toast flavors with a creamy body and dry finish.
Finding a similar Russian Imperial Stout
hopIQ matches by flavor profile — not just style label. A beer with the same chocolate, oak, coffee character as Parabola will score highly even if brewed in a different country or under a different sub-style name.
Other Russian Imperial Stouts in hopIQ