This is a beer three years in the making that will be joining the current lineup of Floridian and Hop Gun in that always-available category.
"Hop Stimulator is the natural evolution of our taproom classic Small Axe Big IPA," says John Linn, Funky Buddha Brewery's brand director. "We've seen what people like about Small Axe over the years — its insane drinkability compared to its high ABV, it's balance of malt character and hop bitterness — and have built on that."
The beer is set to be loaded with hops, including Cascade, Centennial, Citra, and Amarillo. It'll be dry-hopped from here to tomorrow. It's scheduled to clock in at 9.5 percent alcohol by volume. In other words, it will be one stimulating experience.
Expect to see it on draft and in four-pack, 12-ounce bottles starting April 19.
In addition, the brewery is seeking the wisdom of the crowd to select its fourth year-round beer. Currently the recommended beers are either Raspberry Floridian or Pineapple Pils.
"Hopefully the beer we choose does well," a brewery spokesperson wrote on Beer Advocate. "If it doesn't, well then back to the drawing board!" According to the same posting, these two were chosen based on sales data. "Ultimately we thought we were giving people what they wanted."
Starting this weekend, customers will be able to order a flight at the Oakland Park brewery that includes Hop Gun, Floridian, Raspberry Floridian, and Pineapple Pilsner, then vote on which they liked best. When the time comes, Buddha will select one person to get the first case of its new year-round beer off of the bottling line as well as a $100 gift card. And you thought voting doesn't matter.
Funky Buddha Brewery is located at 1201 NE 38th St., Oakland Park. Call 954-440-0046, or visit funkybuddhabrewery.com.
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