Wellington Brewery Imperial Russian Stout: Brewed in Guelph, Ontario at a strength of 8% abv, Wellington claims to be Canada’s oldest operating Independent microbrewery (they opened in 1985), however I believe Spinnakers actually takes that honour as they opened in 1984. Still, all fact disputes aside, this is a beer I’ve heard about from other’s back east and finally I was able to acquire one to crack open, try for myself and review.

Flavour: A lot of the aromatics are mirrored in the flavour, starting out with a fudgy brownie beginning followed by notes of medium roast coffee, tar, tobacco and soot in the middle of the beer. It has a thick body and finishes with an Oreo cookie covered in milk chocolate flavour proceeded by a dry cocoa and mocha aftertaste that tends to linger at the back of your palate for a while.

Overall Impression: This is an impressive and well made Russian Imperial Stout that lives up to its reputation. It’s the Sierra Nevada Narhwal of Canada I’d say!

Rating: I give it am excellent rating of 8/10, a very good and reliable beer that exemplifies the style quite nicely and delivers some interesting nuances of flavour.

Food Pairing: Oreos, chocolate caramel cookies, or chocolate cake. Bring out the sweets as it has a good base that will enhance the sugary food without wrecking the beer or overpowering the food.

Here’s a good shot from their Instagram page of some samplers from the brewery. It looks like a fun place to visit (if you can make the hours) and they have some very social media friendly branded glassware which is just plain smart on their end.