By Shannon Maria Jones

2SP Brewing Company released its award-winning beer The Russian, a robust Russian Imperial Stout, at its Tasting Room in Aston on Saturday.

Guests had the opportunity to mix and mingle with head brewer Bob Barrar, dubbed The Medal Machine, who has solidified his reputation as being the leading brewer of the Russian Imperial Stout style in the United States. This year’s win at the Great American Beer Festival was the first for 2SP Brewing Company, established in 2015, though it represents the 11th for Barrar.

“With Barrar working on a new system, with new recipes, there really wasn’t much expectation from our team,” said 2SP Brewing Company Founder and President Michael “Stigz” Stiglitz. “It was incredible to celebrate the win surrounded by industry friends like Yards and Iron Hill. We all celebrated together.”

The Russian is unmistakably flavorful and approachable for its powerful 9 percent ABV. The body is a combination of powerful flavors, showcasing notes of chocolate, coffee, and licorice and hints of vanilla, giving the beer a nuanced, creamy flavor. The beer is only brewed a few times per year because it is extremely labor intensive. Barrar arrives at the brewery by 3 AM to begin the 14-hour brew day required to create The Russian.

2SP is located at 120 Concord Road in Aston.