What Is An IPA?

People often ask what is an IPA anyway? IPA stands for India Pale Ale. These beers are known for their bold hop flavours and often higher alcohol content. The story goes back to the 1700s when British brewers added extra hops to their pale ales to keep them fresh on long sea voyages to India. This extra hopping not only worked as a preservative but also gave the beer a distinct, robust flavour. Fast forward to today, and they have become a cornerstone of craft brewing.

Nowadays there are many different variations of IPAs with the craft beer boom that has taken over since the early 2010s. This article will provide some clarity and give some more information on the different styles and the fundamentals behind what is arguably one of the most popular beer styles in the world.

There's more than one?

You might be surprised to learn there's not just one type of India Pale Ale. Here are some common ones you might come across:

1. West Coast: Clear appearance, strong bitterness, with notes of pine, citrus, and resin. These usually have a dry finish that lets the hop flavours shine.
2. New England (NEIPA): Hazy and juicy, with low bitterness. Expect flavours like mango, pineapple, and citrus. The haze comes from specific brewing techniques that give the beer a soft mouthfeel.
3. Double (DIPA): Also called Imperial IPA, these ramp up the alcohol content and hop intensity. They're bold, rich, and often have complex hop flavours and aromas.
4. Session: For those who want the same flavour without the higher alcohol content. These are lighter in body and ABV but still pack a flavourful punch. A good example of this style would be Repeater Session IPA.
5. Black: A mix of roasty stout flavours with classic hop-forward character. These dark beers offer a unique blend of roasted malt and hop bitterness.

Brewing an IPA is all about showcasing the hops. Different hops give different flavours and aromas, from floral and citrusy to earthy and piney. Brewers often use multiple hop additions during brewing to create layers of flavour. Here's a quick look at what goes into making one:

• Hop Selection: Brewers choose specific hop varieties to get the flavours they want. Popular hops include Cascade, Citra, Simcoe, and Mosaic.
• Brewing Techniques: Methods like dry hopping (adding hops after fermentation) boost aroma and flavour without adding bitterness. This is common in NEIPAs, where the focus is on juicy, aromatic hops.
• Balancing Act: While hops are the star, the malt backbone is important for balance. Brewers carefully pick malts that complement the hops without overpowering them.

India Pale Ales have become a favourite among craft beer drinkers. Their range of flavours and styles means there's usually one out there for everyone. Here's why they've gotten so popular:

• Variety: Whether you like something light and citrusy or dark and intense, there's probably one for you.
• Bold Flavours: They are known for their assertive flavours. The high hop content provides a unique taste experience.
• Innovation: Craft brewers often experiment with them, which keeps the style fresh and exciting.
• Community: Craft beer fans are pretty passionate. There's a whole community of people who enjoy trying and discussing different variants of their favourite style.