Side Project Brewing Ambiente (2024)

Name: Side Project Brewing Ambiente (2024)
Brand: Beer
SKU: 68ddd287543a5a31f8094d62
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.27 (653 reviews)

Imperial Stout 10.4 º

Side Project Brewing

Ambiente is a luxurious Imperial Stout that artfully marries the depth of a barrel-aged blend with vibrant Mexican chocolate aromatics. The sensory journey begins with an intense bouquet of TCHO Ghana Cocoa Nibs and a dual-origin perfume of Madagascar and Ugandan Vanilla Beans. Nuances of Willett Rye O.W.K. barrel aging emerge through notes of toasted oak and spicy rye grain, while Fresh Ground Cinnamon provides a warming, woody counterpoint. Mulato Peppers contribute a delicate leathery fruitiness rather than overt heat, grounding the rich, fudgy roast. The result is a harmonious, velvety stout that balances decadent sweetness with complex layers of spice and charred malt.

Appearance. Jet black (40+ SRM) and completely opaque. It supports a dense, creamy, deep-tan to mocha-colored head with moderate retention. High viscosity is evident through heavy lacing and visible legs on the glass.

Aroma. High intensity. Rich waves of bittersweet chocolate, fudge, and creamy vanilla dominate. A deep roasted malt backbone provides coffee and charred grain notes. Secondary aromas include woody cinnamon, spicy rye whiskey, and a subtle leathery fruitiness akin to raisins or prunes from the Mulato peppers. Esters are low, and hop aroma is absent.

Taste. Intense initial impression of dark chocolate and vanilla cream. The middle palate is complex, featuring toasted bread, espresso-like roast, and a lingering warmth from the cinnamon. The Mulato peppers provide an earthy, dark-fruit depth without sharp heat. Bitterness is moderate but balanced by the significant malt sweetness. The finish is long and bittersweet, showing integrated rye spice and oak from the barrel blend.

Mouthfeel. Full to very full-bodied with a viscous, chewy, and velvety texture. Carbonation is low to moderate, providing just enough lift to the heavy body. A smooth, gentle alcohol warmth is present throughout, without any harsh or solventy edges.

Sensory Profile.