Top 10 American-Style Imperial Stouts
This Top Ten Imperial Stouts list is from the U.S. Open Beer Championship, Great American Beer Festival, and World Beer Cup. The best imperial stouts are black to very black, American-style imperial stouts typically have high alcohol content. Generally characterized as very robust. The extremely rich malty flavor and aroma are balanced with assertive hopping and fruity-ester characteristics. Bitterness should be moderately high to very high and balanced with the full sweet malt character. Roasted malt astringency and bitterness can be moderately perceived but should not overwhelm the overall character. Hop aroma is usually low to moderate. ABV: 7.5-15. IBUs: 45-80. Below is a listing of the Top 10 American-Style Imperial Stouts.
1. Corruption By Proxy – Primal Brewing – North Carolina
2. Indie Roo – Pizza Port – Imperial Beach – California
3. Furious Fox – Golden Fox Brewing – Illinois
4. Secretary of Stout – Senate Avenue Brewing Co – Texas
5. Kill The Lights – The Tap Brewery – Indiana
6. Night Howler Imperial Stout – Baerlic Brewing Co. – Oregon
7. Cryptid – Coppertail Brewing Co. – Florida
8. ReVive – 10 Barrel Brewing Co. – Portland – Oregon
9. The Shroud – Bravery Brewing Co – California
10. Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout- Toppling Goliath Brewing – Iowa
History of Imperial Stouts
Imperial stouts trace their origins to 18th-century England, where strong, dark beers were brewed for export to the Russian Empire. Initially crafted by London brewers like Thrale’s Anchor Brewery, these robust porters were designed to withstand long sea voyages and appeal to the Russian court, particularly under Catherine the Great. High alcohol content (often 8-12% ABV) and intense flavors from roasted malts, coupled with heavy hopping, ensured both preservation and a bold taste profile suited for cold climates. The term “imperial” emerged from their association with Russian royalty, distinguishing them from standard porters and stouts. By the 19th century, these beers gained popularity across Europe, though their production waned in England as export markets shifted.
The modern revival of imperial stouts began in the late 20th century, fueled by the craft beer movement in the United States. Brewers like Sierra Nevada and Samuel Smith reintroduced the style, emphasizing rich, complex flavors with notes of chocolate, coffee, and dark fruit, often aging them in barrels for added depth. American interpretations pushed boundaries, incorporating adjuncts like vanilla, spices, or even chili peppers, while maintaining the style’s hallmark intensity. Today, imperial stouts are a global phenomenon, with breweries from Scandinavia to Japan experimenting with innovative variants. The style’s enduring appeal lies in its versatility and ability to evolve, cementing its place as a cornerstone of craft brewing.
Top 10 Beers in America – Ales Lagers Specialty Barrel Aged