IPAs (India Pale Ale) are one of the most iconic and beloved styles in the beer world. Let’s dive into this story full of flavor, bitterness, and curiosities!
Historical Origin: Fact or Myth?
Fact: IPA originated in England in the 18th century. The style was created to withstand long sea voyages to the British colonies in India. To achieve this, more hops (a natural preservative) were added, and the alcohol content was increased.
Myth: Many believe George Hodgson was the sole creator of IPA, but there’s controversy. Other styles like Porter also endured long trips quite well.
Fun fact: The term India Pale Ale first appeared in 1829 in an Australian newspaper.
Timeline (Summary)
- 1700s – Pale Ale already existed in England.
- 1780–1800 – Hodgson sends hoppier, stronger batches to India.
- 1800s – IPA also becomes popular in the UK.
- 1900s – Declines in England, survives in the USA.
- 1980s–2000s – Revival with the American craft beer revolution.
- Today – Diversification into dozens of substyles.
Key Facts About IPA
- Hops are the star: They bring the characteristic aroma, flavor, and bitterness.
- Alcohol content: Usually between 5% and 7.5% (but Double/Triple IPAs can exceed 10%).
- Flavor profile: Ranges from citrusy and floral to resinous and tropical, with some earthy notes.
- Global variety: Today there are American, English, Belgian, German, and experimental IPAs.
- Craft movement: IPA was the “flagship” that boosted microbreweries, especially in the U.S.
Arrival in the U.S. and the Birth of the American IPA
In the 1970s and 1980s, with the boom of craft beers in the United States, IPA was reinvented.
Americans began using local hops like Cascade, Citra, and Mosaic, creating more citrusy, tropical, and intense profiles.
This new version became known as American IPA and turned into a symbol of the U.S. craft beer revolution.
Difference Between English IPA and American IPA
| Characteristic | English IPA 🇬🇧 | American IPA 🇺🇸 |
| Hops | English (Fuggle, East Kent Goldings) | American (Cascade, Citra, Mosaic) |
| Aroma | Earthy, herbal, floral | Citrusy, tropical, resinous |
| Bitterness (IBU) | 40–60 | 40–70 |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 5.0–7.5% | 5.5–7.5% |
| Dry Hopping | Optional | Almost mandatory |
| Body | Medium, malty | Light to medium, hop-forward |
Source: Piquiri Brewshop, Cervejar
Common Myths About IPA
| Myth | Reality |
| “IPA is extremely bitter” | Not always. Modern IPAs (e.g., New England) prioritize fruity aromas with soft bitterness. |
| “IPA was invented to survive the trip to India” | Partially true. Pale Ales were already shipped; adjusting hops and alcohol improved preservation. |
| “All IPAs are strong” | Not all. There are Session IPAs with lower alcohol (~4%). |
| “All IPAs are the same” | There are dozens of substyles with very different profiles. |
IPA Styles and Substyles
English IPA
Moderate bitterness, English hops (earthy, floral, herbal).
Examples: Fuller’s Bengal Lancer, Meantime IPA.
American IPA
More bitter and aromatic.
American hops (citrus, pine, tropical).
Examples: Sierra Nevada Torpedo, Stone IPA.
New England IPA (NEIPA) / Hazy IPA
Hazy appearance, smooth body.
Intense tropical fruit aroma, low bitterness.
Examples: Tree House Julius, Trillium Fort Point.
West Coast IPA
Clear, dry, crisp bitter finish.
Citrus and resinous hops.
Examples: Pliny the Elder, Lagunitas IPA.
Session IPA
Lower alcohol (~4%).
Maintains hop aroma and flavor.
Example: Founders All Day IPA.
Double / Imperial IPA
Higher alcohol (8–10%) and hop content.
Intense profile, high bitterness.
Example: Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA.
Triple IPA
Extremely strong (10–12%+).
Bold aroma and flavor.
Example: Stone Ruination Triple IPA.
Black IPA (Cascadian Dark Ale)
Dark appearance, roasted malts + hop-forward profile.
Example: 21st Amendment Back in Black.
Brut IPA
Extremely dry (almost no residual sugar).
Dry, sparkling profile.
Example: Social Kitchen Brut IPA.
Pairing and Popularity
IPAs pair well with spicy dishes, grilled meats, and strong cheeses.
The versatility and intensity of flavor have made IPAs a worldwide passion among beer lovers.
Quick Summary
- IPA was born in England → popularized through export to India.
- It evolved in the U.S. → becoming the symbol of the craft beer revolution.
- Today it’s a whole umbrella of styles → from resinous bitterness to hazy tropical juice.
- Myths: Not all IPAs are bitter, strong, or the same.
Discover more from Arte da Cerveja - Maria Anita Mendes
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