Down by the Thames in Chiswick, west London, an old story resurfaces every winter from Fuller's brewing coppers - a stout dark and heavy enough that it was once brewed strong enough to survive the journey to the Russian imperial court. Fuller's has retold that story every year since 2013, and the 2025 edition is no exception.
The expert's take on Fuller's Imperial Stout 2025 Limited Edition
Fuller's Imperial Stout is the brewery's annual tribute to the classic imperial stout style, which dates back to 18th century England, when particularly strong, dark beers were brewed for export to imperial Russia. The 2025 release forms part of a limited three-bottle collector's set marking Fuller's 180th anniversary, alongside a 180th Anniversary Porter and a 2025 Vintage Ale. The beer is bottle-conditioned, meaning fermentation continues gently inside the bottle - so it can be enjoyed now or laid down to mature for years to come.
The recipe leans on Sovereign and Centennial hops for a floral edge, while dried rose petals are added during maturation. That gives the beer its signature sweetness, reminiscent of Turkish delight, layered over classic roasted malt character. Fuller's is brewed at the Griffin Brewery, where beer has been made since the 17th century, under the Fuller, Smith & Turner name since 1845.
Tasting notes
Nose
Deep and dark, with bitter chocolate, cocoa powder and creamy malt. Rose petals peek through alongside a hint of Turkish delight, burnt fruit and marshmallow.
Palate
Creamy and full-bodied, with rounded malt, dark chocolate and a sweetness of roasted coffee and liquorice. Rose petals and burnt fruit sit alongside a peppery hop bitterness underneath.
Finish
Long and gently bitter, with lingering notes of roasted grain, dark chocolate and a last touch of florals.
Specifications
Name: Fuller's Imperial Stout 2025 Limited Edition
Brewery: Fuller's
Region/Country: Chiswick, London, England
Type: Imperial Stout
ABV: 10.7%
Size: 50 CL
Edition: 2025 Limited Edition
Serving suggestion: Best enjoyed at 12-14 degrees in a wide brandy or stout glass, alongside dark chocolate, blue cheese or a rich Christmas dessert
Flavour profile
Roasted · Chocolate · Rose Petal · Fruity · Full-Bodied · Spiced
Did you know?
The Griffin Brewery in Chiswick is home to Britain's oldest wisteria plant, planted all the way back in 1816 - it still climbs the brewery walls today.
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