As Imperial Russia extended its territories into the Baltic States during the early 1780's, Catherine the Great, Empress of all the Russians fell in love with strong British Stout. Imperial Stout captures the essence of this truly classic beer, with its full body, rich black colour and distinctive dry bitterness. Capped by a smooth, creamy head, it is a brew to be savoured, and enjoyed at its best when served chilled - approximately 5?C or 41?F.