Here’s a beer that I picked up in 2015 and just got around to drinking on the last day of August, 2017: Jailhouse Thieves in the Law Russian Imperial Stout. Of course, if you can’t age a massively strong Imperial Stout, what can you age? Mine held out nicely and was a wonderful example of the style.

Jailhouse says about this release:

A Solitary Confinement Series Release in March of 2015. Limited draft and 22 oz bottles.

As far as I know, Jailhouse Thieves in the Law Russian Imperial Stout has not been re-released since. The beer takes its name from the Russian Vory, or “Thieves in the Law”, the heads of Russian organized crime. All Jailhouse beers have some form of law enforcement or criminal connection. A Russian one is only fitting for an Imperial Stout.

From the website:

This Russian Imperial Stout tells the story of our Vor, Colossus, as he towers over the city with quiet authority, just the way he likes to. Flavors of supremely rich espresso, decadent chocolate, and dark fruit jams reveal their pitch-black hiding places as the beer warms. Sneaky alcohol and intricate depths of flavor will allure you into this “dark side of the law” beer. Be cautious you don’t find yourself a lifer. Thieves in the Law is only a limited release.

Jailhouse Thieves in the Law Russian Imperial Stout has an alcohol content of 11.5% by volume with 75 IBUs. I paid $12.99 for my bomber bottle.

Jailhouse Thieves in the Law Russian Imperial Stout pours to a jet-black color with a thick creamy tan head and a rich roasty nose with hints of licorice. Taking a sip, the beer is intensely dark roasty with bittersweet baker’s chocolate, licorice with more intense charred roasted notes in the bitter finish and a  big boozy alcohol warmth.

I think I might like a little more body here but this is a very tasty imperial stout.

And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.

*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.

(B)=Bottled

(D)=Draft

Home