2nd Shift BA Mexican Chocolate Cake LSD

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

The nose opens with assertive bourbon-soaked oak mingling with dark chocolate and cinnamon, backed by vanilla bean and subtle chili warmth. On the palate, dense chocolate cake richness dominates—think devil’s food soaked in aged spirits—alongside coffee grounds, caramelized sugar, and delicate cinnamon-spice heat. Molasses depth provides luxurious weight while bourbon barrel tannins structure the experience. The finish is long and warming, with lingering dark chocolate, oak char, and a faint whisper of chili that never overwhelms, allowing the barrel character and imperial stout foundation to shine through with remarkable balance.

Food Pairing

Pair with a flourless chocolate torte topped with cinnamon whipped cream and candied orange peel, where the beer’s barrel-aged complexity mirrors the dessert’s intensity while the spice notes create harmony. Alternatively, serve alongside slow-braised short ribs with mole sauce, the beer’s chocolate and chili elements echoing the dish’s earthy complexity while its bourbon backbone cuts through rich, fatty textures.

About 2nd Shift Brewing

2nd Shift Brewing was founded in 2011 in St. Louis, Missouri, by Steve Crider and Libby Crider. The brewery takes its name from Steve’s experience working second shift at the Anheuser-Busch brewery while developing his craft beer vision during off-hours. Operating from their facility in New Madrid, a historic riverfront building in the city’s industrial corridor, 2nd Shift has become known for producing bold, innovative beers that push boundaries while respecting traditional brewing methods.

The brewery’s approach centers on creating adventurous, flavor-forward beers with particular emphasis on hoppy ales and experimental styles. Their portfolio ranges from well-executed IPAs to creative seasonal releases that showcase unusual ingredients and techniques. 2nd Shift has gained recognition within the American craft beer community for their willingness to take risks and their commitment to quality across both their year-round offerings and limited releases. The brewery has established itself as a significant voice in Missouri’s craft beer scene, helping to elevate St. Louis’s reputation beyond its macro-brewing heritage while contributing to the city’s growing community of independent craft brewers.

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