Vibes
What is an IPA?
What is an IPA?
IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a high-fermentation beer known for its pronounced hoppiness and often higher alcohol content. More hops are added than in other beer styles, this gave the beer its distinctive bitterness. IPAs usually have an alcohol content between 5% and 7%, but this can vary depending on the style.
how did IPA come about?
IPA originated in England in the late 18th century, during the British colonial rule of India. English brewers faced a challenge: they had to supply beer to British soldiers and officials stationed in India. The hot, humid climate meant that beer exported to India often spoiled during the long sea voyage. A solution had to be found. To ensure that beer survived the long journey to India, brewers started adding extra hops to their beers. Hops have naturally preservative properties and helped make the beer last longer. In addition, the alcohol content of the beer was increased, which also promoted stability. By this time, Pale Ale was already a well-known beer, hence the name ‘India Pale Ale’ When travel time could be reduced in 1869 due to the construction of the Suez Canal, adding the amount of hops became less necessary and thus the IPA lost its popularity. It was not until the 1980s that IPA really returned to the spotlight. American brewers, inspired by traditional British beers, started experimenting with hop varieties. This gave IPA a new, fresh twist and laid the foundation for the modern craft beer revolution.
The different styles of IPA
Within the beer style India Pale Ale, there are many different varieties. To make things clear, below is a beer selection tree! This lists the flavour patterns and common flavours for each IPA.
Got it?
Today, we hope you understand just a little bit more about the IPA, what a rich history it has and how many different versions of this style of beer there actually are. Curious about how they will taste now? Take a look in our webshop and try our Green Bullet IPA, our Bon Chef de New England IPA or one of our many limited editions! Because only after tasting them can you say you are a true IPA connoisseur.
