Sierra Nevada Narwhal Imperial Stout 2025 Craft Beer 35,5 cl 10,2%

From Chico, California, comes one of the most acclaimed imperial stouts on the American market - named after the sea's most enigmatic creature and just as dark as the deep ocean itself.

Expert description of Sierra Nevada Narwhal Imperial Stout 2025

Sierra Nevada Narwhal Imperial Stout is a popular and acclaimed beer from the American brewery Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., founded in 1980 by Ken Grossman. It is a powerhouse of an imperial stout, often praised for its intense flavour and high alcohol content of 10.2%. The 2025 edition continues the tradition of previous vintages, built for both immediate enjoyment and longer cellaring.

Narwhal is known for its dark, almost black colour and complex flavour profile, which typically includes notes of dark chocolate, coffee, roasted malt and occasionally subtle hints of smoke or vanilla. The beer has a full body and a rich, creamy mouthfeel, making it suited to slow enjoyment rather than a quick thirst quencher.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Dark chocolate and coffee, with deep notes of roasted malt.

Taste

Roasted malt, dark chocolate and coffee, with subtle hints of smoke and vanilla.

Finish

Long, rich and creamy with lingering notes of roasted coffee.

Specifications

Name: Narwhal Imperial Stout 2025
Brewery: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Country/Region: Chico, California, USA
Beer Style: Imperial Stout
ABV: 10.2%
Size: 35.5 CL
Edition: 2025 edition
Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed at 12-14°C in a wide glass, pairs well with dark chocolate or grilled beef

Flavour Profile

Roasted · Chocolate · Coffee · Full-bodied

Did You Know?

Sierra Nevada was founded by Ken Grossman in 1980 and is regarded as one of the breweries that truly kickstarted the American craft beer movement.

See our full range of Craft Beer

Listen to our podcast:

Frequently Asked Questions about Sierra Nevada Narwhal Imperial Stout 2025

What does Narwhal Imperial Stout taste like?

It tastes of dark chocolate, coffee and roasted malt, with occasional subtle hints of smoke or vanilla.

Is Narwhal Imperial Stout worth it?

Yes, it is one of the most acclaimed American imperial stouts, known for its intensity and complexity at a reasonable price.

What temperature should it be served at?

12-14°C is ideal to bring out the chocolate and coffee notes. Choose a wide beer glass to get the most out of the aromas.

What food pairs well with Narwhal Imperial Stout?

Dark chocolate, grilled beef or strong cheese suit the beer's full, roasted character.

Where does Sierra Nevada come from?

From Chico, California, USA, where the brewery was founded in 1980.

Can Narwhal Imperial Stout be cellared?

Yes, its high alcohol content makes it well suited to ageing for several years when stored correctly, dark and cool.

Why is it called Narwhal?

The name refers to the narwhal, the sea's enigmatic "unicorn of the sea," as an image of the beer's rare and dark character.