One of the most asked questions in our shops is, “What actually is an IPA?”

In this Blog we explore a little of the history of IPA as a beer and explain the characteristics of the most popular styles of IPA.

What is an IPA Beer?

IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a hop-forward beer style that has become a staple of the craft beer world. Originating from England in the late 18th century, IPAs were brewed with higher alcohol content and more hops to withstand long sea voyages to British colonies, particularly India. Over time, this beer style evolved, gaining popularity for its bold flavours and bitterness. Today, IPAs are one of the most diverse and innovative categories in craft brewing, with many different styles of IPA offering a wide range of flavour profiles, from bitter and piney to fruity and juicy. Let's dive into some of the most popular types of IPAs.

Different Types of IPAs:

1. Session IPA. (SIPA)

A Session IPA is designed to be a lighter, more drinkable version of a traditional IPA. Typically, Session IPAs have a lower alcohol content, ranging from 3% to 5% ABV.  The name "session" implies that you can enjoy several of these beers in one sitting without becoming overly intoxicated. Despite their lighter body and lower alcohol content, Session IPAs retain the characteristic hoppy aroma and flavour, often with notes of citrus, pine, and tropical fruits. They are ideal for those who want the bold flavours of an IPA but with less intensity and alcohol.  Try a Blackjack Salvation Session IPA

2. Double IPA (DIPA)

Double IPAs, also known as Imperial IPAs, are the stronger, bolder version of the classic IPA. With an alcohol content typically between 7.5% and 10% ABV, DIPAs are characterised by their intense hop bitterness, bold citrus, pine, and tropical fruit flavours. The robust malt backbone balances the high alcohol levels. The "double" in Double IPA refers to the increased amount of hops and malts used in the brewing process, resulting in a beer that is both more bitter and richer.  DIPAs are perfect for seasoned IPA lovers who enjoy a stronger, full-bodied beer. Try a Sureshot Dilson DIPA

3. Triple IPA (TIPA)

Triple IPAs take the concept of a Double IPA to the next level. With an alcohol content ranging from 10% to 12% ABV or even higher, TIPAs are incredibly hop-forward, with powerful bitterness and an intense, resinous flavour profile. They often feature a wide range of hop aromas, from tropical fruit to pine and earthiness, but with a more pronounced malt sweetness to balance the high alcohol. Because of their potency, Triple IPAs are meant to be sipped slowly, allowing you to savour the complexity of flavours.  Certainly not one you want to rush.

4. New England IPA (NEIPA)

New England IPAs, or NEIPAs, have become one of the most popular IPA beer styles in recent years, known for their juicy, hazy appearance and soft mouthfeel. Unlike traditional IPAs, NEIPAs emphasise hop flavour and aroma over bitterness, often showcasing tropical fruit notes like mango, pineapple, and orange. The haze comes from the use of certain grains, yeast, and heavy dry hopping, which gives these beers their characteristic creamy texture and cloudy look. NEIPAs are perfect for those who enjoy less bitterness and more fruity, juicy flavours.

5. West Coast IPA

The West Coast IPA is a classic American IPA style that has helped define the craft beer movement. Known for its clear appearance, dry finish, and assertive bitterness, this style is characterised by its piney, resinous, and citrus-forward hop profile. West Coast IPAs typically have a balanced malt backbone, which allows the hops to shine without being overly sweet. The bitterness is sharp and clean, often with flavours of grapefruit, pine needles, and hints of floral and herbal notes. These IPAs are perfect for hopheads who crave a crisp, bitter, and refreshing beer. Try A Lakes West Coast IPA

6. Black IPA (BIPA)

A Black IPA, also known as Cascadian Dark Ale, is a unique hybrid that combines the dark, roasted malt flavours of a stout or porter with the hoppy bitterness of an IPA. This style features a deep black colour and complex flavours, ranging from roasted coffee and dark chocolate to piney and citrusy hop notes. The contrast between the dark malt and bright hops creates a balanced, intriguing beer that is both robust and refreshing, ideal for those who enjoy dark beers but still crave the hoppy bite of an IPA. Try a Stone Sublimely Self Righteous IPA. 

7. Double Dry-Hopped IPA (DDH IPA)

Double Dry-Hopped IPAs take the aromatic intensity of hops to another level. The "double dry-hopped" process involves adding hops twice during fermentation, amplifying the hop aroma and flavour without significantly increasing bitterness. DDH IPAs are often juicy and fragrant, with layers of tropical fruit, floral, and herbal notes. The result is a fuller, more vibrant hop experience that still maintains a smooth and balanced finish, making it an excellent choice for hop enthusiasts. Try a Lakes Lyrical Danceflop

Conclusion

IPAs come in a wide variety of styles, each offering a unique take on hop-forward brewing. From the lighter, Session IPA to the bold and boozy Double and Triple IPAs, the juicy, hazy New England IPAs, the crisp and bitter West Coast IPAs, the dark and complex Black IPAs, and the intensely aromatic DDH IPAs, there is an IPA for every taste preference. Whether you’re new to the world of IPAs or a seasoned hophead, exploring these styles is a great way to discover the diverse flavours and creativity that define craft beer today.

Check out our full range of tasty IPA's here.