Exploring a Hop-Forward Powerhouse in a Can
Southern Tier Brewing Company in Lakewood NY has been on a steady mission to push the boundaries of American craft beer, and their Hoptomic Rush tropical IPA doesn’t dial anything back. This isn’t a delicate, floral beer for warm afternoons on the porch—this is a hop-charged assault on the senses, and that’s exactly what it promises from the label to the last drop.
First Impressions
Crack open a can of Hoptomic Rush and you’re met with a big burst of citrus and pine. It pours a hazy golden amber with a tight, foamy head that clings to the glass like it means business. This beer smells like a mix of grapefruit rind, mango, and dank resin—classic West Coast DNA, with a twist of modern juicy IPA aroma.
The Flavor Profile
At 6.5% ABV, this tropical IPA doesn’t hit too hard and since it’s not just a booze bomb. There’s structure here. The malt backbone provides just enough sweetness to keep the hop bitterness from going full sledgehammer, but make no mistake—this beer leans heavy on the hops. I’m not a fan of super hoppy beers but this one (and most from Southern Tier) is just not as nasty as some hoppy beers can be.
Expect big notes of grapefruit, tangerine, and tropical fruit right up front. That gives way to a resinous pine bitterness that sticks around long after each sip. It’s not trying to be subtle. It’s clear Southern Tier crafted this beer for folks who want to taste the hops.
Where It Fits
Hoptomic Rush isn’t a daily drinker—it’s more of a Friday night IPA for folks who know what they’re getting into. Pair it with grilled meats, sharp cheddar, or strong blue cheese if you want a food combo that’ll keep up. It’s not a beginner beer, and it doesn’t pretend to be. But for fans of aggressive IPAs with a solid malt spine and a non entry level ABV, this one earns its place in the cooler.
Final Thoughts
Southern Tier Hoptomic Rush delivers on its name. It’s bold, bitter, and boozy with just enough balance to keep things from going sideways. If you’re a fan of assertive double IPAs that make no compromises on hop character, this one’s worth grabbing a four-pack. Just be ready—this one doesn’t pull punches.
Pros:
- Explosive hop flavor and aroma
- Solid malt body for balance
- Smooth beer at 6.5% ABV
Cons:
- A bit too intense for casual IPA drinkers
- Bitterness lingers—some might find it overwhelming
Bottom Line:
Southern Tier Hoptomic Rush isn’t trying to be approachable—it’s a full-throttle hop experience in a can. Southern Tier brewed this one for the folks who crave bitterness, strength, and character in every sip. If that’s your lane, consider it a worthy ride. This beer deserves a place in your garage fridge, it’s not quite the beer to run to when trying to be productive but it goes well when the work is done, or the frustration level hits a high and a distraction is needed.
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