Originally developed by displaced Ukrainian brewers as part of the Drinkers For Ukraine solidarity brew campagin, this Anti-Imperial Stout draws inspiration from the traditional Ukrainian borshcht by using beetroot as a key ingredient. Even though it was recommended to add the beetroot to the finished beer, to avoid a potentially prolonged secondary fermentation I decided instead to already add it to the mash from the beginning. The beetroot was therefore roasted and peeled, then partially chopped and pureed, and stirred in with the rest of the grains during mashing. The resulting rich and intensely colored wort was then fermented using a high-attentuation British-style yeast, after which it was transferred onto a blend of Belyzium cacao nibs and Madagascar vanilla beans to round up the flavor. With an intended low carbonation, the goal was to create something that was strong enough to make a statement, while still pouring smooth like a mocaccino, rich and roasty but also soft and creamy, with subtle flavors of chocolate and just a hint of vanilla. The resulting beer was finally shared with the local community at the Fortitude Fundraiser along with other homebrewed beers in exchange for donations. All of the money raised with this beer went towards the Red Cross to support humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine.