Originally a stout of British origin, this style of beer became popular with the Czarist Court in Russia. High hop levels and alcohol content, as well as large amounts of dark malts, allowed it to survive the journey to Russia and the surrounding regions. These qualities also make for a beer that ages well, providing layers of flavor that continue to develop over the years. A combination of chocolate, coffee and roasted malt flavors and aromas are complimented by an assertive bitterness from both dark malts and British hops.