How do you know someone drinks IPA? Don’t worry, they’ll tell you! IPA drinkers are a special round of drinkers, and immensely proud of the fact that they regularly drink IPAs. In some parts of the world, they call themselves “hopheads” and even base beer festivals just around the one drink. So, what is it that sets this beer apart from the rest?
The Origin of the IPA
IPA is short for ‘India Pale Ale,’ referring to the beer that British sailors would take with them on their route to India. The British, trying to create a beer that would last them long enough on the journey, decided to add more hops into the mixture, knowing that it would help preserve the beer. The effect of this was delicious—rather than the semi-sweet, malty English ales they were used to, the sailors noticed that this beer was more bitter, stronger, and higher in alcohol content Thus, the IPA was born, and with it, a new generation. But as the decades grew on, even the IPA itself took on many different appearances. Most notable are:
- The English IPA: As they did originate in England, it’s fair to give the first nod to the English IPA. These beers use British hops, which give the IPA a very light and grassy taste. They are usually quite dry, and almost like a hoppy golden ale.
- East vs. West Coast IPA: Based off the American coasts, the next nod must go to the U.S, which was one country to really take on the IPA beer to heart. The west coast version tends to use American hops, which are very piney with a citrus aroma. These tend to be some of the most bitter IPAs. East Coast IPAs are similar to West Coast IPAs with one big exception—the yeast. East coast uses a more complex yeast, which can give off a fruitier flavour. These beers also tend to take on a cloudier appearance and are not nearly as bitter as the west coast IPAs.
- Session IPAs: Session IPAs are made for those that want to drink a beer and still go about their day! Session typically implies that these beers will be under 4.5%–an ale that you can sit and drink during a long session.
Whatever your drink of choice, there are so many different varieties that can help open your eyes and your palette to the world of India Pale Ale.
