Strong, dark ales are regularly used as a base to be aged in wood. Imperial porters, stouts and barley wines are used to prop up the canvas that is bourbon or wine barrels. On its own, however, the imperial stout is a style that can showcase a brewer’s talents and leave an impression on the palate—and the following morning.
As the name suggests, imperial stouts are strong. The definition can vary, with some brewers staying in the 7% to 8% abv range (still more than double the strength of the more familiar dry Irish stout), but most will climb into the low double digits. That said, any harsh alcohol is