Southern Tier Brewing Company

This image displays a 12 oz bottle of Southern Tier Brewing Company’s Caramel Pumking Imperial Pumpkin Ale, highlighting the label’s distinct pumpkin-themed design. The beer, known for its strong caramel, pumpkin, and spice flavors, has a higher alcohol content (8.6% ABV) and appeals to those who enjoy sweet, dessert-like beers. The pumpkin-headed mascot on the label emphasizes the playful and seasonal aspect of this imperial ale.

Review of Southern Tier Brewing Company’s Caramel Pumking Imperial Pumpkin Ale

Southern Tier Brewing Company’s Caramel Pumking Imperial Pumpkin Ale delivers a bold blend of caramel, pumpkin, and spices, making it a unique choice for those who enjoy sweeter, stronger beers. The beer starts with a punch of caramel that dominates the flavor, almost candy-like in its intensity, but this sweetness tends to overshadow the pumpkin and spice elements that should balance the profile. If you’re a fan of caramel-heavy flavors, this one might be for you, but for others, it might come off as a bit artificial.

A 12 oz bottle and a glass of Southern Tier Brewing Company's Caramel Pumking Imperial Pumpkin Ale on a cutting table at Williamsburg Garment Company.

The beer finishes with a noticeable alcohol warmth and a bitter edge that contrasts with the sweetness. While it’s certainly not a subtle beer, it offers an intense experience that could appeal to those who prefer dessert-like brews. However, the overpowering caramel and artificial sweetness make it a bit too much for my palate, so I only revisit it once a year to see how it holds up. If you’re curious where this beer lands among the best pumpkin ales, check out our Pumpkin Beers Ranked post for the full list.

  • Style: Imperial Pumpkin Ale
  • ABV: 8.6 %
  • IBUs: 28
  • Brewer: Southern Tier Brewing Company, based in Lakewood, New York, is a craft brewery.