Beer Review: 450 North Assorted Slushy Slim
If you’re familiar with the high-gravity, thick-as-motor-oil smoothie sours 450 North is famous for, the Slushy Slim series is their “diet-friendly” pivot. While the “XL” and “XXL” versions are essentially unfermented fruit purée with a splash of beer, the Slim line aims for a lighter, more “crushable” profile without losing that signature candy-shop flavor.
Here is a breakdown of the 450 North Assorted Slushy Slim variety pack.
Brewery: 450 North Brewing Company (Columbus, IN)
Style: Fruited Sour / Light Fruited Ale
ABV: 4.5% (Significantly lower than the 7–8%+ of their XXL series)
Unlike their XXL cousins, which look like thick smoothies, the Slims pour much cleaner. They are still vibrant and opaque, but they have a thinner, more liquid consistency. Don’t expect a massive head, the heavy fruit adjuncts usually kill any significant carbonation foam quickly.
Mouthfeel
This is where the “Slim” name shines. It lacks the “chewy” or “pulpy” texture of the heavier versions. It’s light, refreshing, and highly carbonated. It feels more like a premium fruit soda or a high-end seltzer than a heavy craft beer.
The Experience
The Good: It is incredibly easy to drink. If you find the original 450 North beers too filling or too sweet, this is the perfect middle ground. It’s a great “poolside” or “beach” beer.
The Bad: Traditional beer fans may find it “too far” from what beer is supposed to be. There is very little malt or hop character here; the fruit is the star, the sun, and the moon of this beverage.
The Slushy Slim is a successful experiment. It captures the “hype” flavor of 450 North in a package that won’t make you feel like you need a nap after one can. It’s a top-tier choice for people who love fruit sours but want something they can actually drink two of in one sitting.