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Beer Styles

American Double / Imperial Stout

Beer style guide

Reviewed by , Drinks Editor
StoutAleAle • Imperial Stout3–14% ABVfull bodylow-medium bitterness

Is this for me?

Choose this if…

  • ✓You want a full-bodied, substantial beer.
  • ✓You want a stronger beer (around 3–14% ABV).

Skip if…

  • ✗You prefer lighter, more refreshing beers.
  • ✗You prefer session-strength or lower-alcohol beer.

What is American Double / Imperial Stout?

A beer style that is a stronger version of the American Stout, with a higher alcohol content and more intense roasted malt flavor and aroma.

Best For

Cold eveningsBig mealsAleAle • Imperial Stout

Food Pairings

ChocolateDessertBBQSteakOysters

Taste & Style

low-medium bitternessfull bodyCoffeeRoastedFull BodiedChocolateStout

Flavour profile

Coffee(high)Roasted(high)Full Bodied(high)Chocolate(medium)

Food pairings

Best for

Also known as

Double Imperial Stout (common_name)Double Stout (common_name)

Frequently asked questions

What is American Double / Imperial Stout?
A beer style that is a stronger version of the American Stout, with a higher alcohol content and more intense roasted malt flavor and aroma.
What does American Double / Imperial Stout taste like?
American Double / Imperial Stout is often described as Coffee, Roasted, Full Bodied, Chocolate. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and brewery.
What foods pair with American Double / Imperial Stout?
American Double / Imperial Stout pairs well with Chocolate, Dessert, BBQ, Steak. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
How strong is American Double / Imperial Stout?
American Double / Imperial Stout typically has an ABV of 3–14%. A standard serving contains approximately 90–320. Strength and calorie content vary by producer and batch.
When should I enjoy American Double / Imperial Stout?
American Double / Imperial Stout suits casual social occasions, food pairings and sessions where you want a flavourful but approachable beer. The style profile makes it versatile across a range of settings.
What beers are similar to American Double / Imperial Stout?
If you enjoy American Double / Imperial Stout, explore other beer styles with a similar bitterness and body rating using the sensory bars as a guide. Styles with a matching profile score will feel closest in character.
What are some popular examples of American Double / Imperial Stout?
Many breweries produce American Double / Imperial Stout across different regions. Seek out local craft examples for fresh flavour, or look for well-reviewed commercial options widely available in bottle shops and pubs.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare beer styles at a glance.
How do I use the sensory profile to find beers I like?
If you like hoppy beers look for High Bitterness. For smooth, easy-drinking beers choose Soft Bitterness and Light Body. Use the Beginner-Friendly rating to find beers that match your experience level.

Style information is approximate and can vary by producer, region and recipe.