Brewed in the tradition of the 18th century English brewers who supplied the Russian court of Catherine the Great, Old Rasputin develops a cult following wherever it goes. It's a rich, intense brew with big, complex flavors & a warming finish. North Coast Brewing Old Rasputin has been well-recognized in tasting competitions since its introduction. Four straight gold medals at the World Beer Championships in Chicago rank Old Rasputin among the world's elite. A memorable drink. Contrary to what the name suggests, Russian Imperial Stout was originally brewed in 18th century England. The name evolved as the Russian Imperial Court developed an early appreciation for this big, intense brew and provided an eager export market. It's been speculated that no one had a greater appreciation for this rich, roasty elixir than Rasputin, the mystic wag (and favorite of the ladies of the court) who was the ultimate downfall of Czar Nicholas II. Rasputin is probably best remembered for his dramatic exit. Having been deemed politically expendable, he was fed poisoned wine and tea cakes by his rivals. Surviving that, he was shot several times - whereupon he attacked his assailants. He finally succumbed when bound and stuffed through a hole in the ice to drown in the river Neva. Legends that attribute his tenacity to his appetite for Russian Imperial Stout are unproven. World Beer Championships: One of the ten best breweries in the world - Beverage Testing Institute. www.northcoastbrewing.com. Brewed & bottled by North Coast Brewing Co., Inc. Brewed & bottled in Ft. Bragg, California.