IPA beer kegs

IPA beer

India Pale Ale (IPA) originally hails from England, crafted for British troops stationed in India. The addition of extra hops ensured better preservation during the long voyage. English IPAs typically exhibit earthy and floral notes, while American IPAs emphasise vibrant hop aromas, such as citrus.

What is IPA beer?

During England's era of global exploration, British sailors, soldiers, and emigrants found themselves in India, where the hot climate was unsuitable for brewing beer. Consequently, beer had to be shipped from England, fortified with additional hops to extend its shelf life for the journey. This necessity gave rise to the India Pale Ale, characterised by its heightened hoppiness and increased alcohol content.

Though the IPA style nearly vanished, it was revitalised in the 1970s by American brewers. Today, American IPAs like Lagunitas IPA are widespread. The trend quickly gained traction in Europe, making IPA one of the most popular beer styles globally. Even the UK has embraced it again, with notable examples like Brewdog's Punk IPA and Elvis Juice.

IPA beer and food pairing 

IPA beer's popularity also stems from its versatility with food pairings. The interplay between the beer and the dish creates a unique culinary experience. For those who enjoy spicy cuisine, IPAs complement dishes like Thai or Indian food, where the beer's bitterness enhances the heat of the spices.

Serving peanuts with an IPA highlights the salt's ability to mellow the beer's bitterness, bringing out its fruity and floral hop notes. Additionally, a fruity IPA pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad.

Top IPAs to try 

The world of IPAs is vast, offering a range of flavours and intensities. If you prefer a pronounced hop flavour, beers from Brewery Uiltje are an excellent choice. Another renowned IPA brewer is Brewery Jopen. With so many options available, choosing can be overwhelming. For recommendations, check out our list of the top 10 IPAs, featuring a variety of delicious IPAs.

Exploring IPA varieties 

The IPA category includes several sub genres. Session IPAs have lower alcohol content, while Double and Imperial IPAs are stronger. Our blog provides detailed insights into the history and evolution of IPAs, along with the best beer and food pairings.

IPA beer offers 

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