Fuller's Imperial Stout 2025 Limited Edition Special Beer Bottle 50 cl 10,7%

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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Questions and answers about Fuller's Imperial Stout 2025

What does Fuller's Imperial Stout 2025 taste like?

It tastes of dark chocolate, roasted malt and a sweetness of rose petals reminiscent of Turkish delight. It's a strong, full-bodied stout with a gently bitter, peppery finish from the hops.

Is Fuller's Imperial Stout worth the money?

Yes, it sits at the pricier end for beer, but that reflects the long brewing process, the bottle conditioning and the fact it's only produced in a limited batch each year. It's a beer you buy for the complexity and the story, not for everyday drinking.

How long can you keep Fuller's Imperial Stout?

It's bottle-conditioned and can develop for up to 10 years if stored correctly. Keep it dark and cool, ideally standing upright so the sediment doesn't get stirred up too much.

Is Fuller's Imperial Stout 2025 a good gift?

Yes, it comes in a smart gift box and is a great choice for anyone into beer or whisky who wants something a bit different from the usual bottle of wine.

Should Fuller's Imperial Stout be served cold or at room temperature?

Serve it at 12-14 degrees, so slightly cooler than room temperature but warmer than fridge temperature. Too cold and you lose the dark chocolate and rose notes.

What glass should you drink it from?

A wide, rounded glass - a brandy glass or a dedicated stout glass works well - giving you room to take in the aromas before the first sip.

What food pairs well with Fuller's Imperial Stout?

Dark chocolate, blue cheese or a rich Christmas dessert with caramel and nuts. It also works well on its own as a digestif after dinner.

Why does it taste of rose petals?

Fuller's adds dried rose petals during the beer's maturation. Combined with the floral character of the Centennial hops, that creates a sweetness reminiscent of Turkish delight.

What's the difference between an imperial stout and a regular stout?

An imperial stout typically has a notably higher alcohol content and a more concentrated malt character. The style dates back to 18th century England, when strong, dark beers were brewed hardy enough to survive the long voyage to the Russian imperial court.

Where is Fuller's Imperial Stout brewed?

At the Griffin Brewery in Chiswick, west London, where beer has been brewed since the 17th century. Fuller, Smith & Turner has run the site since 1845.

Is Fuller's Imperial Stout an annual release?

Yes, Fuller's has re-released Imperial Stout every year since 2013. The 2025 edition forms part of an anniversary collector's set marking the brewery's 180th year, alongside a Vintage Ale and a 180th Anniversary Porter.