IPA Craft Beer: Styles, Tasting Tips & Brewing Basics

If you’ve walked into a bar and heard the term IPA, you probably wondered what the hype is about. IPA stands for Indian Pale Ale, a hop‑forward beer that started as a way to survive long sea voyages. Today it’s a staple of the craft scene, with dozens of sub‑styles that suit different palates.

What Makes an IPA Different?

The defining feature of an IPA is the hop profile. Hops give bitterness, aroma, and flavor that range from citrusy and tropical to piney and earthy. Malt is still there, but it usually plays a supporting role, keeping the balance in check. The alcohol content typically lands between 5% and 7% ABV, though some double IPAs push past 8%.

Popular IPA Sub‑Styles

American IPA – The most common version, bright citrus, grapefruit, and pine. It’s what most people picture when they hear “IPA.”
New England IPA (Hazy IPA) – Cloudy, juicy, and low‑bitter. Think mango, peach, and a soft mouthfeel.
Double or Imperial IPA – Extra hops and higher alcohol, delivering intense flavor and a bigger punch.
Session IPA – Lighter body and lower ABV (around 3‑4%). Great for a long night without feeling heavy.
Black IPA – Dark malts give a roasted note, but the hop character stays front‑center.

Choosing the right IPA depends on what you like. If you love bright fruit flavors, go for a New England or West Coast IPA. If you prefer a smoother, less bitter sip, try a Session IPA.

Tasting an IPA Like a Pro

First, look at the color. Hazy IPAs stay cloudy, while classic ones are golden to amber. Swirl the glass, then take a quick sniff. You’ll catch citrus, pine, or tropical fruit notes—let them hit your nose. Take a small sip and let it coat your tongue. Notice the bitterness level and how the hop flavors evolve. A good IPA should balance bitterness with malt sweetness, never feeling one‑sided. Finish by noting the after‑taste. Does the hop flavor linger? Does it leave a dry finish? Those clues tell you how well the beer is brewed.

Food Pairings That Work

IPAs love food that can handle their boldness. Spicy tacos, grilled chicken wings, or a sharp cheddar cheese cut through the bitterness nicely. For a hazy IPA, try a fruit‑based dessert like a peach cobbler—the fruit echoes the beer’s own juicy notes.

Home‑Brewing a Simple IPA

If you’re curious about making your own, start with a basic kit that includes malt extract, a reliable hop schedule, and a clean fermenter. Most beginner IPAs use a 2‑hour boil with hops added at 60, 30, 15, and 5 minutes, plus a dry‑hop at the end of fermentation for extra aroma. Keep fermentation temperature around 68°F (20°C) for a clean yeast profile. After a week, add the dry hops, wait another 3‑5 days, then bottle or keg. The result is a fresh, hop‑forward beer that lets you taste the process yourself.

Whether you’re sipping a local taproom’s newest release or trying your hand at brewing, the world of IPA craft beer offers something for every taste. Explore different styles, experiment with food pairings, and don’t be afraid to hop around—there’s always a new angle to enjoy.