I was excited to try this imperial, noting the higher ABV at 8.5%. Unfortunately, pushing the IBUs up to 70 totally overwhelms this red ale. The color and head are inviting, but the hoppy aroma and bitterness leaves me disappointed.

Pours dark amber with ruby hues. The thin off-white head dissipates rather quick. You can smell the lightly roasted malts before you even finish pouring. Taste is different. There is a light smoke flavor but it also has an unusual fruitiness to it. Slightly bitter, slightly sweet, slight alcohol burn. Interesting beer.

Yuck!

Ok. For a red it's more hoppy. Long finish. Not like ordinary red. Would have again. Somewhat heavy.

Not great flavor. Lots of hops and alcohol. Needs to be reworked a bit. Over carbonated

Hoppier than expected.

C+. Good malt, but not very complex.

Fruity hop flavor. Moderate bitterness. Nice malt backbone. Slightly strong alcohol flavor.

Interesting flavor. Not bad but okay

I enjoy the Pilot Series offerings from Alaskan and this is another reason why. This red amber has a sweet taste that lingers long after you put down your glass. You'll have to hold the glass high to a bright light to catch a glimpse of red in this dark amber. When you do see it, you will appreciate the richness of ruby in it. This Imperial Red is a bit on the heavy side begging for a splash of water down the hatch after one takes care of the liter plus "bomber" but don't let that stop you from you enjoying it. Russia wished it had an Imperial Red this good.