Last Updated: 2 March 2026

Key Takeaways

• The Collaboration: A heavy-hitting 8.5% Imperial Stout brewed by Leeds legends North Brewing Co and Nottingham’s stout masters, Neon Raptor.
• The Profile: A decadent “dessert in a can” featuring rich cacao, salty peanut, and smooth banana.
• The Evolution: North Brewing Co has transitioned into a new era under the Keystone Brewing Group while keeping its independent heart at Springwell.
• The Verdict: A robust, sweet, and complex stout that perfectly balances “pastry stout” fun with a classic malty backbone.

North Brewing Co has long been a Northern powerhouse, producing some of the best-tasting beer I have experienced. It is hard to believe that North first started life back in 1997 as North Bar, which is still trading today as a cornerstone of the Leeds scene. Their original vision was to blend craft beer, local breweries, and eclectic art, eventually winning the ‘Best Place to Drink in Britain’ in 2006.

Fast forward to March 2026, and North has navigated some massive changes. After their relocation to the 21,000 square foot Springwell brewery in 2020 and their acquisition by Keystone Brewing Group in early 2025, the brewery has found its second wind. They are still producing the high-quality, innovative hops and stouts that made them famous, including their experimental Field Recordings series.

One particular standout I keep coming back to is their legendary collaboration with Nottingham brewing legends Neon Raptor. Known for their sticky IPAs and delectable stouts, Neon Raptor are currently celebrating their 10th anniversary with a massive “Alphabet Series” of collaborations.

The Beer: Cacao, Peanut & Banana Imperial Stout

This 8.5% ABV Imperial Stout is exactly what you need for a cold evening. It was designed to be rich and decadent, using a bundle of dark malts and a bountiful load of cacao husks in the mash.

What makes this stout so special is the addition of lactose to increase the body, resulting in a luscious, chewy texture. North then circulated the finished beer through even more cacao husks and nibs, layering it with peanut and banana flavours.

If you are a fan of The Kernel’s historic stouts, you might find this a little sweeter, but it perfectly balances “dessert beer” fun with a complex, roasty finish.

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Intense roasted malt and sweet chocolate, with a distinct but subtle hint of ripe banana.
• Palate: You are hit with a dark treacle sweetness followed by a massive blast of peanuts.
• Finish: Dry and lingering with an alcohol warmth that reminds you this is a serious 8.5% brew.

I have been a fan of North’s beers for a long time, and being an active member of their North Beer Club is still one of the best ways to get these releases fresh. This stout is a perfect example of why collaborations work so well, blending the best of Leeds and Nottingham brewing.

I would highly recommend pairing this with something indulgent. Think chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, or even a salty peanut snack to draw out those nuttier notes. If you are having a night in after a busy day, this is the ultimate “slow sipper”. It is also a fantastic luxury gift idea for the beer geek in your life.

FAQ: North Brewing Co & Neon Raptor

Where is North Brewing Co based now? North Brewing Co is still based at their Springwell brewery in Leeds. Since 2025, they have been part of the Keystone Brewing Group (alongside brands like Black Sheep and Magic Rock), which has allowed them to keep brewing their iconic beers at scale.

Is this Imperial Stout vegan? No, this specific collaboration contains lactose (milk sugar) to provide that creamy mouthfeel and sweetness, so it is not suitable for vegans. However, Neon Raptor often produces vegan-friendly stouts like their “Clusters” series.

How should I serve an Imperial Stout? Unlike a light lager, you should not drink an 8.5% Imperial Stout ice-cold. Take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before drinking. This allows the complex cacao and banana flavours to “open up” as the beer warms slightly.