Crow Brewery was awarded Ratebeer’s best brewery in Serbia for 2017. They’ve gained notice with many creative beers, such as their Rtanj Tea-infused Alien Pale Ale and the fruity Paradise Apricot Blanche. One of their standout’s is the big, bold Crow Brewery Black Widow Russian Imperial Stout.
When compared to American craft brewery’s Russian Imperial Stouts, Black Widow may seem a little light. But this is a heavy, ballsy beer for Serbia’s emerging craft beer scene. It’s best to try it on tap, and your sure to find it served at Gunner’s Pub in Belgrade. It pours pitch black and thick, although with a very light tan head that fades fast.
The aroma’s quite simple: loads of coffee beans and chocolate. Flavor follows with more of the same. A sweetness of caramel, sour cherries and blackberries comes out. The roasted malts and bitter 60 IBUS are evident, although for people familiar with this style, it may seem quite sweet and fruity. As it warms up, look for nutmeg, hazel and little grassiness.
It’s a booze bomb at 9.1% ABVs. The alcohol is obvious, and almost a little metallic. The beer feels creamy, but lacks the heavy body of a typical RIS. Barrel-aging this would help a lot. Get this beer though, so you can try an award-winning Balkan craft beer.
