Samuel Smith's Imperial Stout

◎ Aussehen

Deep black with minimal transparency, presenting the opaque density characteristic of the Imperial Stout style. The head is tan and persistent, forming fine lacing that clings to the glass with each sip. Carbonation appears moderate, appropriate to the beer's strength and malt-forward character.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with roasted barley and dark chocolate, layered beneath which emerge espresso and cocoa powder notes. Beneath the roast, dark stone fruits—plum and raisin—signal the house yeast's ester profile. A subtle warmth and alcohol presence round the aromatic profile without dominating.

◐ Geschmack

The palate opens with bold roast and chocolate richness, followed by pronounced coffee bitterness that holds the underlying malt sweetness in balance. The body is full and warming, with a slight sweetness from the cane sugar evident in the mid-palate, yet never cloying. Hop bitterness—moderate at 35 IBU—maintains structure without harshness.

◑ Abgang

The finish is long and warming, with persistent roast character and a gentle alcohol heat that lingers pleasantly. Dark cocoa and a hint of bitterness linger in the aftertaste.