Which characteristic is NOT associated with American imperial stouts?

American imperial stouts are characterized by their bold and intense flavors, distinguishing them significantly from their British counterparts. One of the primary differences is the stronger hop presence found in American versions, which contributes to a more complex flavor profile, often including bold notes of chocolate, coffee, and sometimes fruity or citrusy elements from the hops used.

Another characteristic of American imperial stouts is the tendency for barrel aging, which can add layers of flavor such as vanillin from oak, as well as additional nuances from the type of spirit previously held in the barrels. This wood aging is commonly part of the American style.

In contrast to these robust attributes, British imperial stouts typically present a more balanced approach, favoring malt sweetness and less pronounced hop bitterness, which is why the characteristic of being "less robust than British versions" does not apply to American imperial stouts. Instead, they are celebrated for their strength and complex flavor diversity, making them distinctly bolder and more hop-forward than their British counterparts.