Founders Imperial Stout
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Tasting Notes
The aroma leads with dark chocolate, espresso, and a thread of dark dried fruit — think prune or raisin — with a faint boozy warmth underneath. On the palate it's dense and chewy, delivering roasted malt bitterness layered over molasses, bittersweet cocoa, and a hint of vanilla. The body is full and coating, and the finish is long, bitter, and slightly warming without being harsh. This is a beer that rewards slow drinking.
About the Brewery
Founders Brewing is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has been operating since 1997. They built their reputation on aggressively flavored, high-gravity beers and are particularly well regarded for their stout and porter lineup — KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout) is arguably their most celebrated release. They're a significant presence in the American craft scene and distribute widely across the US.
Food Pairings
A thick beef stew works well here because the roasted malt mirrors the fond and caramelized meat. Aged cheddar or a sharp blue cheese hold up to the beer's bitterness and provide a salty counterweight to the dark sweetness. Flourless chocolate cake or a brownie with sea salt plays into the cocoa notes already in the glass. Smoked brisket is another strong match, where the char and smoke echo the beer's roasted character without competing with it.
Style Guide
Russian Imperial Stout originated in 18th-century England, brewed at high strength to survive export to the Russian Imperial Court. The style is defined by intense roasted malt character, full body, high bitterness, and an ABV that typically runs from 9% to 13%, which contributes noticeable warmth. It's distinguished from a standard stout by sheer density and complexity — more alcohol, more malt, more everything — and from a pastry stout by prioritizing roast and bitterness over sweetness and adjuncts.