Side Project Hazel Ave. | Imperial Pastry Stout | 12% ABV

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

4.3Untappd

Side Project Brewing’s Hazel Ave. pours a thick, viscous, pitch-black liquid with virtually no foam head — a characteristic shared by the most luxuriant imperial pastry stouts and a visual signal of the sheer density within. The absence of a head is no flaw; it is a declaration of intent. On the nose, the beer is immediately commanding: hazelnut espresso, rich dark chocolate fudge, Nutella-like creaminess, toasted coconut, and a seductive waft of Ugandan vanilla rise from the glass in waves of dessert-like opulence. The aroma alone justifies the reputation this Maplewood, Missouri cult brewery has built. On the palate, the mouthfeel is full-bodied, thick, and velvety — almost syrup-like — yet it carries a surprising degree of refinement.

Caramel and nutty coffee lead the charge, with chocolate and coconut playing supporting roles. The sweetness is generous but never cloying, landing just below the threshold of excess. Toasted coconut and vanilla emerge after a few sips, adding layered complexity. The finish is long and warming at 12% ABV, with lingering notes of hazelnut and dark roast. A collector’s piece from Side Project Brewing, best savoured slowly from a wide-mouthed glass at cellar temperature. Discover ratings and community tasting notes at the official Untappd page: https://untappd.com/b/side-project-brewing-hazel-ave/6421989

Food Pairing

Side Project Hazel Ave. imperial pastry stout pairs magnificently with a dark chocolate and hazelnut tart — the beer’s Nutella-like richness harmonises effortlessly with praline notes in the pastry. For a savoury contrast, a board of aged Comté or Gruyère tempers the sweetness with firm, crystalline umami, elevating both the cheese and this extraordinary 12% ABV release from Side Project Brewing.

Side Project Brewing Hazel Ave. — Imperial Pastry Stout with Hazelnut Coffee, Caramel, Coconut, Chocolate & Ugandan Vanilla