La Catherine, Rye barrel aged Russian Imperial Stout (11%alc/vol)
Catherine, the 18th century Empress of Russia, helped inspire one of the world's most epic beer styles: the Russian Imperial Stout. The high alcohol and hop bitterness ensured its survival on the long sea voyage from England to her court. Famous for its dark roasted flavours, this version has hints of dark fruit and black liquorice too. The high rate of alcohol would have been perfect for warming the Empress up on those cold Russian winter nights. Enjoy this beer right away (what i did), or lay it down for a year or two to develop further.
Brewing company: Le Castor (Rigaud, Quebec, Canada)
