Imperial porters are a new and emerging American beer style, and are - as their name suggests - porters of higher malt, alcohol, and sometimes hop strength. They add to their base style qualities thicker mouthfeels, increased warmth from the alcohol content, and richer flavor. Many imperial porters are significantly hopped and can have alcohol levels of 10% ABV or even higher. They are distinguished from baltic porters in that they are always ales (although some Baltic porters are ales), and are more intense in their roasted and bitter flavors.
