Russian Imperial Stouts originated in 18th-century England, specifically brewed with high alcohol and hop levels by breweries like Thrale's for export to the Russian Imperial Court of Catherine the Great. Designed to survive long Baltic voyages without freezing, these beers were dark, complex, and potent. A vertical tasting of the different years allows participants to compare how aging affects flavors and aromas over time. 

The 2026 Vertical Tasting of Riff Raff’s Weapon of Self Destruction Russian Imperial Stout will include:

2013

2014

2024

2025

Our RIS is described as a heavy, dark, smooth ale, the malt bill alone on this stout would impress the gnarliest of czars, but it has the hops to back it up. A diverse selection of dark malts create roasted coffee, chocolate, plumb & raisin.