Side Project — Achromatic Vibes

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

A collaborative adjunct-driven imperial stout built on Side Project’s Missouri base recipe, Achromatic Vibes pours jet-black with a velvety, creamy mouthfeel that coats the palate. Layers of roasted malt and dark chocolate form the foundation, joined by toasted coconut and soft vanilla that lend a sweet, dessert-like richness. The body is silky and full, with a rich, decadent character that stays balanced rather than cloying. Subtle pastry-like sweetness lingers into a long, smooth finish, showcasing the precision and restraint that define the Vibes lineup and its WeldWerks collaboration roots.

Food Pairing

Pair with a flourless dark chocolate torte topped with toasted coconut shavings to mirror the stout’s confectionary depth. For a savory contrast, try a slow-braised short rib glazed with molasses and espresso, whose caramelized richness complements the roasted malt and vanilla sweetness without overwhelming the beer’s silky texture.

About Side Project Brewing

Side Project Brewing was founded in 2013 in Maplewood, Missouri, as an ambitious extension of Perennial Artisan Ales. Created by brewmaster Cory King, the brewery was conceived as a no-compromise venture dedicated to producing extremely limited quantities of experimental and barrel-aged beers. Side Project operates with a singular philosophy: to push the boundaries of brewing without regard to commercial constraints or production schedules, releasing beers only when they reach optimal maturity and quality.

The brewery has earned international recognition for its exceptional barrel-aged stouts, wild ales, and fruited sour beers, with many releases becoming highly sought after by collectors worldwide. Side Project’s meticulous approach involves extensive barrel aging programs, often utilizing premium wine and spirit barrels, and incorporating unique ingredients to create complex, nuanced flavor profiles. Their small-batch production model and unwavering commitment to quality over quantity have established them as one of the most respected names in American craft brewing. The brewery’s reputation is built on consistently delivering beers of extraordinary depth and character, making their limited releases among the most anticipated in the global beer community.