“As the name would suggest, this Imperial Stout is indeed perilous. With flavours of dark chocolate and hints of dark dried fruits from the malt and hops this stout will take you on a journey, leading you astray as the beer warms and the flavours get bolder. At a dangerous 10% ABV, the peril begins with the first sip.”

Glassware: Snifter.

Appearance: Glossy black with a thumb of finely beaded foam atop. Good retention and healthy lace as we go.

Aroma: It’s definitely got some pungent scents coming off. Rich notes of molasses, licorice, sweet espresso, toffee, chocolate, vanilla and earthy spice. Some charred and light smoky characters also coming through. As it warms it begins to reveal its sweeter side along with the warming booze.

Flavour: Oh yeah it comes on with a serious amount of attitude. Tonnes of charred malt, sharp molasses and dark fruit sweetness, chocolate, warming booze, ash and earthy roast. We’re loving how the intensity carries well in to the aggressive, bitter and roasty finish which really draws out on the back palate.

Mouthfeel: Fairly big and meaty. Our only gripe is the 10% ABV is a little too keen. Nicely weighted though with mild-moderate Co2.

Overall: It’s been a seriously long time between drinks for us and Riverside. A lot has changed at the brewery since we last reviewed one of their beers but the good thing is the beers are still of high quality. This impy stout included!