Grimm Brothers Brewing 'Big Bad Wolf' Imperial Red Ale, Colorado

A brooding pour of dark amber sets the scene as Grimm Brothers Brewing's ‘Big Bad Wolf’ Imperial Red Ale steps out of the forest with confidence and warmth. Bold, malt-driven, and quietly assertive, this imperial interpretation of a classic Düsseldorf style is built for cold nights and lingering conversations.

Product Details:

• Owner: Lynx Hawthorne
• Style: Imperial Red Ale
• Series: Fabled Series
• ABV: 8.5%
• Hops:
  • German Noble: Magnum, Mittelfrüh, Polaris
  • Czech Noble: Saaz
  • American: Cascade
• Malts: German Pilsner, Munich, Caramunich, Carafa

Sensory Description:

Dark, malty aromatics lead with toasted bread crust, caramelized sugars, and a hint of cocoa, followed by a crisp herbal lift from noble hops. On the palate, rich German malt flavors unfold first, deeply toasted, lightly sweet, and full-bodied, before giving way to firm bitterness and a clean hop snap. Subtle notes of spice and earthiness emerge through dry hopping, finishing warming, balanced, and resolutely dry for its strength.

Brewer's Background:

Founded in 2010 in Loveland, Colorado, Grimm Brothers Brewing is the state’s oldest continually operating brewery, dedicated to crafting German-inspired beers, both traditional and historical. Drawing inspiration from the fairy tales of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, each beer is crafted as both a stylistic homage and a narrative experience. From Altbier and Märzen to bolder seasonal releases, the brewery blends technical respect for Old World styles with modern creativity, all served in one of Colorado’s largest and most welcoming taproom spaces.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve slightly warmer than standard ales to allow the malt depth and hop complexity to fully emerge. Big Bad Wolf pairs beautifully with roasted meats, sausages, game dishes, and aged cheeses, or can be enjoyed on its own as a contemplative winter sipper when the temperature drops.

Dark, assertive, and unapologetically rich, Grimm Brothers Brewing's Big Bad Wolf’ Sticke Alt Ale reclaims its place at the table,a bigger, bolder expression of Altbier tradition with a story to tell and the strength to keep you warm.