Jacks Abby Hoponius Union

Hoponius Union is an India Pale Lager from Jack's Abby in Massachusetts, built to deliver IPA-style hop character on a lager fermentation. It comes in at 6.5% ABV and 65 IBU, which puts it firmly in hop-forward territory. The bitterness is real, but lager yeast ferments clean and leaves no fruity ester layer, so the hops read as sharper and more defined than they would in an ale of similar strength. Expect tropical fruit and citrus on the nose and palate, the profile typical of the IPL style, with a firm, snappy bitterness through the finish. The malt side is there to hold the hops up: a lightly sweet, bready base that balances the 65 IBU without muddying the finish. The body is typically lean and crisp compared with an IPA, and the dry, clean close keeps the hop bitterness from lingering heavily on the palate. For serving, aim for about 40 to 45°F, a little warmer than a standard pale lager. At straight-from-the-fridge temperatures the citrus and tropical aromatics get muted, while a few minutes out of the cold lets the hop character open up without losing the crispness that defines the style. A tulip or a standard shaker pint works well, and a pour with a little vigor builds a head that carries the hop aroma to the nose. A tall pilsner glass is also a good fit, since it shows off the clarity and carbonation of a lager-brewed beer. At the table, the hop bitterness and moderate strength suit food with heat, fat, or char. Spicy Thai and Indian dishes, carnitas tacos, buffalo wings, and smoked or grilled sausages all stand up to it, as do burgers and sharp cheddar. The carbonation and bitterness cut through richness, and the citrus notes complement lime, cilantro, and other bright, fresh flavors. Dishes that are very delicate or heavily sweet are better matched with a milder beer.