Since I was a graphic designer in a former life, I have a mild fascination with beer labels and packaging (note: anyone cursed with a similar affliction should take a gander at Oh Beautiful Beer). It should come as no surprise, then, that I have major affection for Rush River Brewing Co. For a good long time, Rush River suffered from ferociously ugly branding. With a little help from a fancy-pants Minneapolis marketing firm, however, Rush River is now one of the finest looking brands in the cooler case.

Fortunately for those of us who are easily swayed by pretty pictures, Rush River also makes some darn tasty beer. Located in River Falls, WI, Rush River has been around for just over a decade, but only began bottling about five years ago. I first became acquainted with Rush River at a Great Taste of the Midwest festival in the distant past, during their pre-bottling days, and was thrilled when their wares became available in the Madison area.

A solid little brewery, Rush River eschews flash and glamour and instead offers reliable, well-crafted beers in a range of styles.Though it’s been a while since my last Rush River experience, I recall equally enjoying Unforgiven Amber, Lost Arrow Porter, and Double Bubble Imperial IPA. Bubblejack IPA, as it turns out, is another winner.

Bubblejack is light-bodied, effervescent, and quite hoppy. Citrus notes on the front are nicely complemented by a mildly bitter bite at the finish, resulting in a nearly perfect grapefruit effect. A refreshing, easy-drinking (or “highly sessionable“)  IPA, Bubblejack could easily serve as a house standard.

Rush River Bubblejack IPA