British-Style Imperial Stout – British Origin Ale Styles

British-Style Imperial Stout Style

  • Color: Ranging from dark copper typical of some historic examples, to very dark more typical of contemporary examples
  • Clarity: Opaque in darker versions. When clarity is perceivable, chill haze is acceptable at low temperatures.
  • Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Extremely rich malty flavor, often expressed as toffee or caramel, and may be accompanied by very low roasted malt astringency.
  • Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: Very low to medium, with floral, citrus or herbal qualities.
  • Perceived Bitterness: Medium and should not overwhelm the overall balance. The bitterness may be higher in darker versions while maintaining balance with sweet malt.
  • Fermentation Characteristics: High alcohol content is evident. Fruity esters if present are medium to high. Diacetyl should not be present.
  • Body: Full
  • Additional notes: This style was also originally called “Russian Imperial Stout.”

British-Style Imperial Stout Vital Statistics

  • Original Gravity (°Plato) 1.080-1.100 (19.3-23.7 °Plato)
  • Apparent Extract/Final Gravity (°Plato) 1.020-1.030 (5.1-7.6 °Plato)
  • Alcohol by Weight (Volume) 5.5%-9.5% (7.0%-12.0%)
  • Bitterness (IBU) 45-65
  • Color SRM (EBC) 20-35+(40-70+ EBC)

2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines used with permission of Brewers Association.

Credit: 2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines – Ale Styles – British Origin Ale Styles – British-Style Imperial Stout