Southern Tier Seasonal 6Pk

Southern Tier Seasonal 6Pk is a rotating six-pack of seasonal craft beer from Southern Tier Brewing Company in Lakewood, New York, typically ranging from 8.0% to 8.6% ABV. As part of the brewery's well-known 2X imperial series, each seasonal release delivers a bold, higher-gravity interpretation of a classic style tailored to the time of year — from the spice-laden 2XMAS winter ale to hop-forward summer and fall expressions.

Quick Facts: ABV: ~8.0–8.6% (varies by release)  |  Origin: Lakewood, New York, USA  |  Style: Rotating Imperial/Double Seasonal  |  Brewery: Southern Tier Brewing Company

Production & Heritage

Southern Tier Brewing Company was founded in 2002 in Lakewood, a small town along the southern tier of New York State near Lake Erie. The brewery built its reputation on the 2X series — a lineup of imperial-strength beers that amplify traditional styles with bolder grain bills and aggressive hopping. The seasonal 6-pack rotates throughout the year, and individual releases have used techniques such as fermenting with lager yeast at ale temperatures and incorporating multiple hop and malt varieties to achieve layered complexity. Southern Tier is now part of the Artisanal Brewing Ventures portfolio, which also includes Victory Brewing.

Tasting Notes

Because the seasonal 6-pack rotates throughout the year, the flavor profile shifts with each release. The following general characteristics are consistent across the 2X seasonal line:

Aroma: Expect a pronounced malt backbone on the nose, often accompanied by seasonal spice, dried fruit, or resinous hop character depending on the release. The higher ABV contributes a gentle warmth detectable even before the first sip.

Taste: The entry is typically malt-forward with caramel or toasted bread sweetness, moving into release-specific flavors — warm baking spices and ginger in winter editions like 2XMAS, or citrus and pine hops in warmer-weather offerings. Mid-palate richness is a hallmark of the series, balanced by moderate to assertive bitterness.

Finish: Generally medium-long with residual malt sweetness tapering into a dry, warming close. The imperial strength ensures each sip lingers without becoming cloying.

How to Drink Southern Tier Seasonal

Pour into a tulip glass or snifter at around 45–50°F to let the complex aromatics open up; these are sipping beers that reward patience. The winter 2XMAS release stands up well in a Beer Nog — substituting it for standard ale in an egg-based holiday cocktail. Hop-leaning summer seasonals work as a bold swap in a Michelada, where the malt sweetness tempers the heat from hot sauce and lime. Any release in the line can anchor a Boilermaker alongside a shot of rye whiskey, with the beer's imperial weight holding its own against the spirit.

Best For

• Craft beer enthusiasts who enjoy exploring seasonal, limited-run releases
• Hosting a tasting night focused on imperial and double-strength styles
• Gifting to a friend who appreciates bold, malt-driven New York craft beer
• Pairing with hearty seasonal meals — from holiday feasts to summer barbecue spreads

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Southern Tier Seasonal taste like? The flavor profile changes with each release, but the 2X seasonal series consistently delivers a rich, malt-forward body with higher-than-average alcohol warmth and release-specific flavors ranging from winter spices to summer hops.

How does Southern Tier Seasonal compare to Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA? Both occupy the imperial/double category and share similarly elevated ABVs (around 8–9%), but Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA is a year-round offering with a continuously hopped profile, while Southern Tier's seasonals rotate styles and emphasize malt complexity alongside varying hop or spice additions.

Is Southern Tier Seasonal good for craft beer beginners? The 8%+ ABV and bold intensity may be a step up for those new to craft beer; starting with one bottle alongside lighter fare is a reasonable way to explore the style without being overwhelmed.

Where is Southern Tier Seasonal made? Southern Tier Brewing Company brews in Lakewood, New York, situated in Chautauqua County along the state's southern tier region near Lake Erie.

What foods pair well with Southern Tier Seasonal? Winter releases like 2XMAS pair naturally with roasted lamb or gingerbread desserts, where the beer's spice notes echo the dish. Hop-forward warm-weather releases complement grilled sausages and sharp aged cheddar. Across the line, the malt sweetness works well with smoked brisket and dark chocolate.

What sizes does Southern Tier Seasonal come in? The standard format is a 6-pack of 12-ounce bottles, though availability of individual bottles or cans may vary by market and specific seasonal release.

Is Southern Tier Seasonal worth the price? The 2X seasonal line positions as a mid-premium craft offering; the imperial-strength ABV and rotating limited-availability recipes provide strong value relative to other double and imperial seasonal releases in the category.

Why Southern Tier Seasonal?

Southern Tier's 2X series has been a defining part of the brewery's identity since its early years, and the seasonal rotation represents the most adventurous corner of that lineup. Each release is formulated specifically for its season rather than being a year-round recipe with new packaging. The imperial strength and multi-malt, multi-hop approach give these beers a depth that stands apart from standard seasonal six-packs on the shelf. For drinkers who want to track a brewery's creativity across the calendar year, this rotating 6-pack is one of the more consistently rewarding ways to do it.