Side Project Gourmand 2026 Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Side Project Gourmand (2026) pours an impenetrable jet-black with a thin, mocha-tinted collar that slowly dissipates, leaving faint lacing against the glass. The nose is arrestingly complex: waves of dark cocoa and baker’s chocolate open first, followed by rich bourbon-soaked oak, a whisper of earthy black truffle, and a delicate brine from the caviar finish — a combination that signals something genuinely rare. On the palate, the mouthfeel is full-bodied and almost syrupy, coating every surface with dense, velvety layers of bittersweet chocolate, vanilla bean sweetness, and subtle caramel.

The extended barrel aging — between 18 and 29 months in Willett bourbon casks across three breweries — delivers a seamless integration of wood, spirit, and malt. The finish is long, warming, and quietly luxurious, with that signature truffle and sea-salt signature lingering long after the last sip. Best enjoyed now or cellared for 2–4 years for further refinement. Explore the full beer profile on Untappd.

Food Pairing

Side Project Gourmand 2026 demands equally extravagant company. Pair with a classic beef Wellington — its umami depth and buttery pastry echo the truffle and vanilla complexity of this Side Project Gourmand 2026 release. A second pairing of aged Époisses de Bourgogne and dark rye crispbread draws out the caviar-brine and bourbon-oak backbone, creating a tasting experience worthy of its prestige.