When it comes to the world of craft beer, few names shine as brightly as Side Project Brewing. Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Side Project has earned a reputation as one of the top producers of wild ales and spirit barrel-aged beers globally. In fact, they boast an impressive four of the top 10 highest-rated beers on Untappd. Founded by Cory and Karen King, Side Project Brewing has set a high standard for excellence in the industry.
Side Project Brewing: Where Tradition Meets Experimentation
At Side Project Brewing, the focus is squarely on barrel-aged beer innovation. They specialize in crafting rustic Saisons, Wild Ales, and spirit barrel-aged beers. What sets them apart is their unwavering passion for experimentation and patience, evident in every sip of their beers. They pay homage to old-world production methods, with barrel and open fermentation, and source ingredients as locally as possible from Missouri and Illinois farmers. The result? Unfiltered, unpasteurized, and bottle-conditioned brews that truly reflect the essence of craft brewing.
Side Project Brewing: From Dream to Reality
Side Project Brewing started as a dream and a side project for Cory King, who also serves as the head brewer for Perennial Artisan Ales. In 2013, this dream became a reality when Cory and Karen King founded Side Project Brewing. Their focus on 100% barrel-aged beer innovation has yielded remarkable results. Beers like Fuzzy and Merci, among others, are considered some of the best in their respective styles. Side Project Brewing has received high praise, including being named one of the Top Breweries in the World by Feast Magazine.
Side Project Brewing: A Palette of Flavors
Side Project Brewing is known for its diverse range of barrel-aged beers, including saisons, wild ales, and stouts. They use various barrels, such as bourbon, whiskey, wine, and rum, to age their beers, resulting in complex and ever-changing flavor profiles. While their barrel-aged offerings are sought after worldwide, Side Project Brewing also produces a variety of other beer styles, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Seasonal fruited beers add to the excitement of their lineup.
Side Project Brewing: Taproom Excellence
The Side Project Brewing taproom, located in Maplewood, Missouri, is a welcoming haven for beer enthusiasts. With a wide selection of beers on tap, including offerings from local vendors, it’s the perfect gathering spot. The taproom hosts a range of events, from live music to trivia nights and beer release parties, making it a vibrant hub for the local community.
Now, let’s delve into Side Project Brewing’s remarkable beer collection from Untappd.com:
1. Merci (Blend #3)
- Style: Wild Ale – American
- ABV: 14%
- IBU: N/A
- Untappd Rating: 4.41
Merci is a Saison du Fermier that undergoes a unique brewing journey. It starts with fermentation in French Oak with a Saison/local microflora mixed culture, followed by aging in a light toast American Oak Foedre for six months. The result is a complex, high-ABV wild ale that beer enthusiasts cherish.
2. Balaton (Blend #2)
- Style: Sour – Flanders Oud Bruin
- ABV: 5%
- IBU: N/A
- Untappd Rating: 4.36
Balaton, a Wild Missouri Brown Ale, is fermented and aged in local Chambourcin Barrels with Missouri microflora for over a year, complemented by Michigan Balaton Cherries. This beer boasts a soft yet complex profile, with a higher level of Brett influence and a prominent oak presence, perfectly balancing Side Project’s signature acidity and the tartness of cherries.
3. Smooth (Blend #2)
- Style: Wild Ale – American
- ABV: 6%
- IBU: N/A
- Untappd Rating: 4.38
Smooth, a Blonde Missouri Wild Ale, undergoes fermentation and aging in Side Project’s oldest French Oak foedre for several years. After maturing, it’s racked onto Missouri Nectarines. This beer offers a delightful blend of fruity and oak flavors, showcasing the brewery’s dedication to the craft.
4. Blended 2017
- Style: Wild Ale – American
- ABV: 6%
- IBU: N/A
- Untappd Rating: 4.55
This unique blend combines multiple brews from different years, creating a rich tapestry of flavors. The mash bills, hops, and aging methods vary, resulting in a complex and highly-rated wild ale.
5. Amis Pour Toujours (Blend #1)
- Style: Wild Ale – American
- ABV: 7%
- IBU: N/A
- Untappd Rating: 4.41
Translating to “Friends Forever,” this collaboration brew with Jackie O’s Pub and Brewery in Ohio is a celebration of vibrant fruit flavors. It’s fermented in oak with a blend of cultures from Missouri and Ohio, aged on Apricots and Mangoes, and naturally conditioned in the bottle. A testament to the power of friendship and craft beer.
Summing It Up
In your quest for outstanding craft beer, remember that some treasures are hidden, and Side Project Brewing‘s beers are among them. While they may be challenging to find due to their limited quantities, the pursuit is well worth it. Each bottle and glass reflects the dedication of a brewery that is not content with the ordinary.
So, the next time you find yourself on a quest for exceptional beer, consider embarking on the journey of the Pontoon Lifestyle and savor the remarkable creations of Side Project Brewing. Your taste buds will thank you for the adventure.
