Side Project — For LC

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

For LC is an opulent, deeply layered imperial stout that showcases Side Project’s mastery of the elaborate barrel program. Rich roasted malt forms the backbone, giving way to waves of dark chocolate, fudge, and cocoa nibs drawn from generous adjunct additions. Mexican vanilla beans lend a creamy sweetness, while cinnamon sticks and ancho chilis introduce a gentle warming spice and subtle smoldering heat on the finish. Extended time in premium bourbon and rye barrels imparts vanilla, oak, and a velvety bourbon warmth, all woven into a viscous, decadent body that lingers with cocoa and spice.

Food Pairing

Pair with a flourless dark chocolate torte topped with cinnamon-spiced whipped cream, allowing the cocoa and ancho notes to harmonize. Alternatively, serve alongside a slow-braised short rib mole, where the chili, chocolate, and bourbon-soaked oak depth amplify the dish’s smoky richness.

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.