Side Project — Derivation 2023 Double Willett (2023)

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

A meticulously composed imperial stout drawn entirely from Willett bourbon barrels, this Double Willett expression of Derivation pours pitch black with a mocha crown. The nose unfurls layers of rich chocolate, vanilla bean, and warm bourbon, lifted by oak, barrel spice, and a whisper of cinnamon. The palate is decadent and full, weaving roasted malt and dark fruit through ribbons of caramel, toasted coconut, and a maple-like sweetness. Willett’s signature high-rye character lends pronounced barrel spice and structure, while a long, oak-laced finish carries lingering vanilla, cocoa, and gentle bourbon heat.

Food Pairing

Pair with a flourless dark chocolate torte topped with vanilla bean crème fraîche to mirror the beer’s cocoa and barrel sweetness. For a savory match, try a slow-braised short rib glazed with bourbon and brown sugar, where the rich roasted malt and oak spice complement the caramelized crust and tender, dark-fruit-laced reduction beautifully.

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.