Spiridon Ivanovich Putin, born in 1879, was a notable Russian chef whose life spanned the tumultuous periods of the pre-revolutionary era and Soviet power.

Dark beers don’t get much darker than Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout from North Coast Brewing Co. in Fort Bragg, Calif. The jet-black elixir is rich and roasty with a dense, tan head, and packs a ...