From Bitter to Sweet: Discover the Spectrum of IPA Beers and Find Your Perfect Match
India Pale Ale (IPA) beers have taken the beer-lover world by storm. Whether you’re a new or experienced drinker, you probably have heard someone rave about the bold and flavorful beers. But with so many different types of IPAs out there, how do you choose the right one for you? In this post, we’ll explore the spectrum of IPA beers varying in their bitterness, sweetness, and overall aroma to help you find your perfect match.
What is an IPA Beer?
Before diving into the different types of IPAs, let’s quickly define what an IPA beer is. An India Pale Ale is a hoppy beer that originated from England in the 19th century. It was brewed for British troops stationed in India and needed to withstand the long journey by sea. To keep the beer fresh, brewers added extra hops and alcohol, which gave the beer a bitter taste and slightly higher ABV level.
Variety of IPAs
West Coast IPA
The West Coast IPA is known for its bold hop flavors, high bitterness, and dry finish. It’s characterized by typically have piney, citrusy, and resinous flavors that are the result of using a generous amount of hops in the brewing process. Some popular commercial West Coast IPAs include Pliny the Elder and Stone IPA.
New England IPA
The New England IPA, also known as the hazy IPA, has a smooth mouthfeel and a juicy tropical fruit flavor. They’re typically less bitter than other IPA styles with a cloudy appearance and a lower ABV. Popular brands include Tree House and Julius.
Double IPA
A Double IPA, also known as an Imperial IPA, is a stronger and hoppier version of a traditional IPA. They usually have a high ABV ranging from 7% to 10%, with a sweet malty flavor to balance out the bitterness. Some popular commercial double IPAs include Heady Topper and Double Trouble.
Belgian IPA
Belgian IPAs are a fusion style of Belgian and American IPA. They’re characterized by spicy and fruity aromas with a slightly bitter finish. Belgian yeast can offer flavors like cloves, bananas, and peppery spice. Some popular commercial Belgian IPAs include Karmeliet Tripel and Houblon Chouffe.
Black IPA
Black IPAs, also known as Cascadian Dark Ales, are characterized by their dark and roasted color. They bring together chocolate and coffee flavors with the citrus and pine aromas of American IPA. Popular commercial black IPAs include Sublimely Self-Righteous and Wookey Jack.
Finding Your Perfect Match
The best way to find your perfect match is by trying different types of IPAs. Beer tastings, beer flights, and brewery tours are all great ways to explore different IPAs styles. Don’t be afraid to ask your bartender or beer expert for recommendations based on your preferences.
When searching for your perfect IPA, keep in mind your preferred bitterness levels, sweetness, and overall aroma. From the piney, bold flavor of the West Coast IPA to the tropical, juicy flavors of the New England IPA, there’s an IPA for every taste bud. Just remember, finding your perfect match may take some exploration, but the journey is half the fun!
In conclusion, IPA beers offer a wide array of flavors and aromas that can enhance your beer-drinking experience. With the different types of IPAs available, it’s easy to find your perfect match by trying different styles and keeping your personal taste preferences in mind.