What is an ipa?

IPA stands for India Pale Ale. It's a type of beer known for its:

• Hoppy aroma and flavor: IPAs are characterized by a significant use of hops during brewing, resulting in strong citrusy, floral, piney, or resinous notes, depending on the hop varieties used. The bitterness from the hops is also a defining characteristic.

• High bitterness: The bitterness level (measured in IBUs – International Bitterness Units) is typically higher than in other beer styles.

• High alcohol content: IPAs often have a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) than many other beer styles, ranging from around 5% to over 10% ABV in some extreme examples.

• Variable malt profile: While the hops dominate, the malt profile can vary considerably. Some IPAs feature a malty sweetness that balances the bitterness, while others are drier and more focused on the hop character.

• Many substyles: The IPA family is quite diverse, with many substyles including:

  • American IPA: Bold hop aroma and flavor, often featuring citrusy and fruity notes.
  • West Coast IPA: Known for its pronounced bitterness and crispness, often with a piney hop character.
  • East Coast IPA: More balanced than West Coast IPAs, with less bitterness and more emphasis on aroma hops.
  • New England IPA (NEIPA): Characterized by a hazy appearance, soft bitterness, and juicy fruit flavors.
  • Imperial/Double IPA: A stronger, more intense version of an IPA, with higher alcohol content and hop levels.
  • Session IPA: A lower-alcohol version of an IPA, allowing for more drinkability.

The history of IPAs is linked to the British Empire's need to transport beer to India. The increased hop addition was initially believed to be a preservative, though modern understanding suggests it was more about providing flavor and stability during the long voyage. Over time, the style evolved, and the many substyles that exist today have developed in different regions and breweries around the world.