🍺 Beer ☕ Coffee 🫖 Kombucha 🍷 Wine 🍵 Tea 📍 Find Breweries Browse All
brewing.com

Imperial Stout Recipe: Rich and Roasty

by

Introduction to Imperial Stout

For more beer tips, check out our beer brewing guides.Imperial stout is a style of beer that originated in the 18th century in England. It was brewed for the Russian Imperial Court, hence the name. This style of beer is known for its rich, complex flavor profile and dark color. In this article, we will explore a recipe for brewing an imperial stout at home.

Equipment List

  • 5-gallon brew kettle
  • Fermenter
  • Siphon and racking cane
  • Hydrometer
  • Thermometer
  • Grain mill (optional)

Imperial Stout Recipe

This recipe is for a 5-gallon batch of imperial stout. The ingredients are as follows:

  • 10 lbs (4.5 kg) of pale malt
  • 2 lbs (0.9 kg) of roasted barley
  • 1 lb (0.45 kg) of chocolate malt
  • 1 lb (0.45 kg) of wheat malt
  • 1 oz (28 g) of East Kent Goldings hops (60 min)
  • 1 oz (28 g) of Fuggles hops (15 min)
  • 1 packet of Safale US-04 yeast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here is a step-by-step guide to brewing this imperial stout recipe:

  1. Mash the grains at 152°F (66°C) for 60 minutes.
  2. Sparge with enough water to reach a pre-boil volume of 6.5 gallons.
  3. Boil for 60 minutes, adding hops at the specified times.
  4. Chill the wort to fermentation temperature (around 68°F or 20°C).
  5. Pitch the yeast and seal the fermenter.
  6. Allow the beer to ferment for 7-10 days, or until the fermentation is complete.
  7. Condition the beer for at least 2 months before bottling or kegging.

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to help you brew the best imperial stout possible:

  • Use a temperature control system to maintain a consistent fermentation temperature.
  • Monitor the specific gravity of the beer to ensure that fermentation is complete.
  • Use a hydrometer to measure the ABV of the beer.
  • Consider adding a small amount of oak or vanilla to the beer for added complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about brewing imperial stout:

  • Q: What is the ideal fermentation temperature for imperial stout?
  • A: The ideal fermentation temperature for imperial stout is between 65-70°F (18-21°C).
  • Q: How long does it take to brew an imperial stout?
  • A: The brew day for an imperial stout typically takes around 6-8 hours, depending on the equipment and process.
  • Q: Can I brew an imperial stout with a kit?
  • A: Yes, it is possible to brew an imperial stout with a kit, but the results may vary depending on the quality of the kit and the brewer’s skills.

Leave a Comment