Beer Galaxy
IPA — The Complete Guide (India Pale Ale)
The IPA (India Pale Ale) is arguably the most iconic style of the 21st-century craft beer revolution. Originating in 18th-century England to survive the long sea voyage to colonial India, today it stands out for its intense hop character, citrus, tropical fruit or resinous aromas, and generous bitterness. From clear, resinous American IPAs to hazy, juicy NEIPAs and powerful Double IPAs, this constantly evolving style offers a remarkable diversity of profiles that matches its worldwide popularity.
Style characteristics
| Abv | 5.5 % – 9 % |
|---|---|
| Ibu | 40 – 100+ |
| Ebc | 8 – 25 (golden yellow to amber) |
| Temperature | 7 – 10 °C |
| Glass | Tulip or IPA glass |
| Bitterness | Pronounced to very pronounced |
| Aromas | Citrus (grapefruit), tropical fruits (mango, passion fruit), resin, pine, flowers |
Sub-styles
- American IPA The classic American IPA, malt-hop balance, citrus and resin notes.
- West Coast IPA Drier, more bitter, clear; resinous hops dominate.
- New England IPA / NEIPA / Hazy Hazy, juicy, tropical fruit, soft bitterness. See full page →
- Double IPA / Imperial IPA Higher ABV (7.5%+) and more heavily hopped, intense.
- Session IPA Light (3-5%), still very aromatic, great for everyday drinking.
- Black IPA / Cascadian Dark Ale Dark in colour, roasted malts with hop-forward profile.
- English IPA The original style, maltier and balanced, earthy and floral hops.
All IPAs in our catalogue
27 beers in this family
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is an IPA?
An IPA (India Pale Ale) is a heavily hopped ale. It is known for its marked bitterness (40 to 100+ IBU), aromas of citrus or tropical fruit, and an ABV typically between 5.5% and 7.5%.
What is the difference between IPA and NEIPA?
NEIPA (New England IPA) is a hazy variant developed in Vermont around 2011. It emphasises fruity aromas (mango, peach, passion fruit) over bitterness, with a juicy, velvety texture. A classic IPA (West Coast for example) is clearer, more bitter and more resinous.
Why are IPAs so bitter?
Historically, the marked bitterness of IPAs came from massive hop doses that acted as a natural preservative for long sea voyages. Today, this bitterness has become a stylistic choice prized by enthusiasts.
What food goes well with an IPA?
IPAs pair particularly well with bold dishes: burgers, Mexican food, curries, strong cheeses (aged cheddar, blue), spicy grilled meats. NEIPAs, being softer, work with mildly sweet dishes and oily fish.
What is the best IPA in the world?
According to RateBeer and Untappd rankings, Pliny the Elder (Russian River), Heady Topper (The Alchemist) and Julius (Tree House) consistently top the charts. In Europe, craft breweries now produce outstanding artisanal IPAs.