The Brew HaHa - Yay for Imperialism!

While there are a number of different definitions of “imperial” as an adjective, I believe the one that is most pertinent to our discussion this week is “befitting an emperor or empress; regal; majestic; very fine or grand; magnificent.” This adjective then applied to different styles of beer basically translates to “more intense” in regards to the character of the hops, malts, and alcohol content. 

The more recent trend of “imperializing” traditional style beers perfectly captures the American brewers shift away from German traditionalism (a strict standard of using only three ingredients: water, malts, and hops) as brewers strive to push the proverbial envelope of flavors and the overall beer tasting experience. And God knows that we at the Catalyst love our crazy obscure flavors. 

Sip slowly to really enjoy the complexities of these beers. And, by default, you’ll be drinking responsibly!

Nefarious Ten Pin Imperial Porter 

Imperial Porter, 8.0% ABV

Ska Brewing Company 

Durango, CO

As far as Imperial Porters go, this one fits the bill in that the robust interplay of classic flavors are still present, but it is a little on the weaker side (which actually works to the consumer’s advantage as it makes the beer surprisingly drinkable for being 8 % ABV). 

Nefarious is a moderately heavy beer that is exceptionally opaque with rich mahogany coloration that can only be noticed on the sides and bottom of the glass. The beer pours a creamy tan colored, medium-sized head that leaves only a minimal amount of lacing.

When I drink a beer, and especially when I drink an Imperial style beer, I’m looking for a couple of things. The first is a complexity of flavors that all complement each other. The second is a full flavor experience. Now, I understand that “full flavor experience” may seem abstract, but it’s really not. What I mean is that I’m looking for a beer that has a beginning, middle and an end and I want to be able to feel the transition from one stage to the next. Nefarious does just that.

Initially upon tasting, there are strong flavors of roasted/burnt malts, bittersweet chocolate, and a little coffee and a slight hint of alcohol. As you continue to exhale (after swallowing the beer, of course), you’ll experience a smoother feeling as the caramel flavors roll in accompanied by notes of sweet citrus. Finally, you’re left with an aftertaste that is slightly dry and crisp with roasted espresso flavors and a lingering taste of alcohol on the tongue. 

Like I said, this is not the most intense Imperial Porter that I’ve ever had (try Flying Dog’s “Gonzo”), but it is definitely more accessible than most without losing its classically robust character. 

Krampus Imperial Helles Lager

Imperial Pilsner, 9.0% ABV

Southern Tier Brewing Company 

Lakewood, NY

So whilst spending some time over Christmas break back in Minnesota, I set out on a mission to find new beers and breweries that I had never been exposed to here in Colorado. Krampus was one of the discoveries for me in both respects. I had never heard of Southern Tier nor had I ever even imagined an Imperial Pilsner. 

I was hesitant initially, to say the least, as I have regularly been disappointed by the overall “beeriness” and general lack of character in pilsners, but this was different. So very, very different. 

For being 9.0%, the alcohol was masked almost too well by the complexities of the different flavors. The beer poured a darker copper color with a tan head that left one of the most ornate lacings I have yet seen. The aroma was characterized by a strong presence of Willamette hops, grapefruit, and sourdough bread. 

Krampus is a very well balanced Imperial that successfully combines the bread-like flavors of a strong pilsner with the distinct citrus and floral notes of a generously hopped IPA (with the addition of roasted caramel malts and apricots). 

The beer is a bit heavier with a smooth mouthfeel and a crispness that makes it quite refreshing. I would highly recommend this beer or this style beer to anyone particularly fond of either pilsners or IPAs as it really captures the best of both. 

Ruination IPA

Imperial IPA, 7.70% ABV

Stone Brewing Company

Escondido, CA

Have you ever tasted beer nirvana? Imbibed yourself with a draught of liquid manna? Ruined yourself on the lips of a slippery bottle? Ruination IPA is the imperial IPA that dethrones all other beers. A liquid poem to the glory of the hop, if you will.

With the aroma of a freshly split grapefruit, the bitter Columbus and Centennial hops of this California-made beer hit you over the head on the first sip. As the onslaught of bitterness fades into the background, the hint of grapefruit and pine oh so fleetingly run over the foreground of your mouth. As the tastes swim together and the bitterness washes away, you will find yourself falling over yourself for the next sip. Ruin yourself. I dare you.