Big Eddy Russian Imperial Stout

Leinenkugel Brewing Company
Chippewa Falls, WI

APPEARANCE: 2.5/3
Black-opaque; big, thick brown head that LASTS.

AROMA: 3.25/4
Chocolate. Roasted notes, lots of 'em. Alcohol nose.

TASTE: 7.75/10
Hop/Malt Balance: 3.25/4: Big and boozy—chocolate, roast, subtle smoke. Sweet, malty, nutty. Roasted bitterness, no hop to speak of.
Aftertaste: 2.25/3: Subtle bitterness, roasty bitterness that lingers. Alcohol on the tongue.
Mouth-Feel: 2.5/3: Full, sweet. Chocolate roast. Smooth and full, if a tad overly effervescent.

OVERALL: 2.25/3: A good example of an imperial stout; at 9.5%, definitely a sipper. Great for a Leinie product, we say give it a try.

TOTAL: 15.75/20–Pour Me Another

NOTES:
Matt: Very good—smoky, sweet and roasty. A solid imperial stout, and a nice surprise from Leinenkugel.
Ben: Surprisingly good for Leinie—did we mention that? Big and boozy. Full, classic stout. Lots of roasted flavor. We'd buy this again.