Chill Rasputin brings North Coast Brewing’s dark-chocolate stout profile to a lower-alcohol format, extending a longstanding beer brand into more relaxed drinking occasions.
North Coast Brewing Company is adding Chill Rasputin to its beer portfolio, adapting the character of its Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout for a lighter format. The 4.5% ABV stout will be sold in 16-ounce four-packs and is scheduled to reach select retailers in early October. The move gives North Coast Brewing, also known as NCBC, a new way to build on one of its most recognisable beer names without presenting the product as a replacement for the original.
Chill Rasputin sits within the growing range of beers designed to retain pronounced flavour while offering lower alcohol and an easier drinking profile. North Coast Brewing describes the beer as more approachable and sessionable than a higher-alcohol stout, while retaining the roasted character associated with Old Rasputin. Its positioning is aimed at both existing Old Rasputin drinkers and people new to craft beer, according to the company.
The beer layers dark chocolate and roasted coffee over what the brewery describes as a smooth, sleek body. At 4.5% ABV, it is materially lighter in alcohol than the Russian Imperial Stout style associated with Old Rasputin, although the company does not frame the product as a direct comparison by strength. Chill Rasputin four-packs will also use Eco-Rings, described by North Coast Brewing as a 100% compostable alternative to traditional plastic can holders.
The product’s design links portfolio expansion with a familiar brand platform. Rather than introducing an unrelated flavour concept, North Coast Brewing is using the Rasputin name, established through its Old Rasputin beer, to support a different format and drinking context. Chief executive Jennifer Owen said the brewery wanted to honour Old Rasputin’s following while creating an option suited to a wider range of occasions.
Chill Rasputin will be available in early October through select retailers, with the company directing shoppers to its online beer locator and the Brew Shop at the Pub at North Coast Brewing Company. Founded in 1988, North Coast Brewing is a Certified B Corp whose portfolio also includes Scrimshaw. The new stout therefore extends an established brand family while keeping its consumer proposition focused on flavour, lower alcohol and portability.
