This is one of those legendary beers that the has won the hearts, minds and Tastebuds of the beer community. Old Rasputin is regarded for its straightforward, powerful, and complex profile that is a flawless example of the style.
Much like Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin
QuoteA Russian mystic and self-proclaimed holy man who befriended the family of Emperor Nicholas II, the last monarch of Russia, and gained considerable influence in late imperial Russia.>
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This beer’s rise to fame is a historic journey. There’s definitely not as much controversy as the man, but this beer does this historic figure justice.
In fact this beer looks like the embodiment of the man with a deep pure black body that absorbs all light. Its deep black core is absolutely impenetrable by all light much like I imagine this historic figures soul. The beer had a beautiful milk chocolate-colored head that rests permanently atop the brew even as it warms. The lacing lingerings all the way down to the bottom of the glass leaving the slightest evidence of a delectable brew.
The aroma is made up of a deep coffee, chocolate, malt, dark fruits, and some tasty caramelized fig. The overall roasted and toasty qualities on the nose are unique and eye opening.
The taste follows the nose as most beers do. It is jam packed with loads of that dark fruit with hefty waves of smoky and bitter dark chocolate. Like a fine cigar I get a earthy light tar, tobacco flavor which is somewhat uncommon. The finish is full of candied plums, earthy hops, and a well hidden bitterness. It’s a combination of flavors that is unique to this beer And would be the perfect pairing for fancy dinner.
The mouthfeel is thick, smooth, and heavy. It’s a heavily hitter and the body does justice to the powerful flavor characteristics.
Overall it’s a dangerously easy-drinking brew for the flavor and ABV. The execution is masterful with so much explosive malty goodness and smoky charm. I hate a smoked beer so this does not have that artificial smoke it taste like fine earthy tobacco. I can say with strong conviction that this is the perfect example of why North Coast Brewing is as a top-tier brewer.
Cheers,
