Side Project Double Barrel Derivation Double Cocoa Double Vanilla

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

4.8Untappd

Side Project Brewing’s Double Barrel Derivation (Double Cocoa Double Vanilla) pours an impenetrably deep black, with virtually no light penetration at the edges and a modest, tan-hued collar that dissipates slowly, leaving faint legs of viscosity along the glass. The nose is immediately commanding: rich baking chocolate and raw cocoa nib dominate, entwined with plush Madagascar-style vanilla extract, warm bourbon oak, and a whisper of charred caramel. On the palate, the double barrel foundation announces itself with authority — dense, full-bodied, and chewy in texture, coating every surface with decadent dark chocolate ganache and sweet cream vanilla.

The cocoa adjunct addition amplifies the chocolate dimension into near-confectionery territory, while the bourbon barrel matrix delivers toasted oak, brown sugar, and a lingering warmth at 15% ABV that builds deliberately. Bitterness is restrained and integrated, serving as a structural counterweight to the sweetness. The finish is exceptionally long, warming, and deeply chocolatey with a vanilla sweetness that persists well after the final sip. Best enjoyed cellared or slightly above cellar temperature, and perfectly suited for extended aging. Reviewed on Untappd by the global craft beer community, the Double Barrel Derivation series consistently earns near-perfect scores.

Food Pairing

The Side Project Double Barrel Derivation Double Cocoa Double Vanilla pairs magnificently with a dark chocolate lava cake topped with vanilla bean ice cream — the beer’s cocoa and vanilla depth mirrors and amplifies the dessert’s richness. A second excellent pairing is a charcuterie board anchored by aged Comté or Gruyère with salted caramel, where the bourbon barrel warmth cuts through the fat and complements the nutty, caramelised cheese notes beautifully.

Side Project Brewing Double Barrel Derivation (Double Cocoa Double Vanilla)