Stone RIS poured a midnight black color with a thick, two fingered width, dark tan head. The nose is dominated by dark malts, with strong aromas of coffee and chocolate. The body is silky smooth and thick, yet surprisingly light on the palate with more dark malts. The finish has a pronounced dry bitterness to it that is able to cut through and balance the oily body. Overall, a really nice, really big beer. A nightcap, this is an incredibly smooth sipping beer that has some noticeable alcohol warmth.
