IPA beer has gained a special place in the hearts of beer lovers in recent years, being recognized for its intense taste, complex aroma and unmistakable character. But what exactly makes an IPA beer so distinctive and how does the process that gives it these unique traits take place?
In this article, we will discover step by step how IPA beer is made, explore the key ingredients and special techniques that give birth to this globally appreciated beverage. Get ready to enter the fascinating universe of IPA beer and understand what makes it truly special!
What is IPA beer?
IPA beer is a style of pale ale beer, characterized by a high hop content, which gives it a bitter, aromatic and distinctive taste. The name "India Pale Ale" comes from the 18th century, when this beer was brewed in England and exported to India during the British Empire. To withstand long-distance transport and harsh conditions, the beer was brewed with a higher alcohol content and hops, which acted as natural preservatives.
What does IPA mean?
IPA is the acronym for “India Pale Ale.” It is an ale beer with a pronounced bitterness and a complex aromatic profile, due to the generous use of hops in the brewing process.
Differences from other types of beer
Compared to other pale ales or lagers, IPA has a much more intense profile, with a balance between bitterness and fruity, floral or resinous aromas, depending on the type of hops used. It is more robust and has a higher alcohol content, usually between 5.5% and 7.5%.
The main ingredients of IPA beer
Beer IPA is distinguished by an intense and complex aromatic profile, the result of a balanced combination of quality ingredients. The essential elements that define the distinct character of an IPA beer are malt , hops, yeast and water.
Malt provides fermentable sugars and contributes to the color and body of the beer. Pale malts are typically used for IPAs , which allow the hop aromas to stand out. Hops are a key ingredient, used in large quantities, often added at several stages of the brewing process. Popular varieties include Cascade, Chinook, and Citra, each bringing distinct citrus, pine, or tropical fruit notes.
Yeast, responsible for fermentation, converts sugars into alcohol and CO2. For IPA, yeast strains that allow the hop aromas to fully express themselves are preferred. Water quality is also important, as the mineral profile of the water can influence the final taste of the IPA beer .
Having reviewed the basic ingredients, let's discover how they are combined in the IPA brewing process .
The IPA brewing process
Making IPA beer is a complex process with several essential steps. It starts with malting, where the grains are crushed to expose the starch inside. Then comes mash, where the ground malt is mixed with warm water, activating enzymes that convert the starch into fermentable sugars.
After filtering the lees, the resulting sweet wort is boiled for 60-90 minutes. At this stage, large amounts of hops, specific to the IPA style, are added . The hops provide the distinctive bitterness and aromas. Then, the wort is quickly cooled and yeast is added to begin the primary fermentation.
A technique specific to IPA beers is dry-hopping , which involves adding dry hops during or after primary fermentation for intense flavors. The process ends with secondary fermentation and maturation, where the beer is left to mature at low temperatures, allowing for the development of complex flavors.
An important aspect of IPA brewing is the emphasis on hops. Craft brewers often experiment with different hop varieties and techniques to achieve the unique and intense flavor profiles characteristic of this beer style.
To better understand the complexity of IPA flavors , let's focus on the dry hopping technique .
Dry hopping technique in IPA brewing
Dry hopping is an important technique in IPA brewing , contributing to the intense and complex flavor profile of this style. This method involves adding dry hops to the beer after the main fermentation has finished, amplifying the hop flavors without increasing bitterness.
In the IPA brewing process , dry hopping is typically done in two stages: the first addition of dry hops is done at the end of primary fermentation, and the second can take place during maturation or even in the conditioning tank. This technique allows brewers to use larger amounts of hops without affecting the flavor balance of the IPA beer.
The hop varieties used for dry hopping are carefully chosen for their aromatic profile. Popular varieties include Citra for citrus and tropical fruit notes, Mosaic for complex berry and pine flavors, and Simcoe for its pine and grapefruit character.
Now that we've analyzed the dry hopping technique, let's see what are the characteristics that define an authentic IPA beer.
The distinctive characteristics of IPA beer
IPA beer is distinguished by several characteristics that set it apart from other styles. These include an intense hop aroma, with notes of citrus, tropical fruit, pine, or flowers, and a pronounced bitterness, the result of the generous use of hops. IPAs typically have a higher alcohol content, ranging from 6% to 7.5% ABV, and a medium to full body.
The color of IPAs can range from pale gold to dark amber, depending on the types of malt used. Dry-hopping contributes to the complex aromatic profile, amplifying hop flavors without increasing bitterness.
In the world of modern craft beer, IPA has evolved into numerous sub-styles, each with its own characteristics. These include West Coast IPA, known for its pronounced bitterness and intense hop flavor, New England IPA (NEIPA) with a velvety and opaque texture, Double or Imperial IPA with increased alcohol content and bitterness, and Session IPA, a lighter version but retaining the aromatic character of the hops.
Given the diversity of IPA styles , let's explore some of the most popular varieties available today.
Popular IPA beer varieties
IPA beer has evolved considerably, becoming one of the most diverse styles in the world of craft beer. Popular varieties include West Coast IPA, characterized by pronounced bitterness and intense hop aromas, New England IPA (NEIPA) with a velvety and opaque texture, Double or Imperial IPA with increased alcohol content and bitterness, and Session IPA, a lighter but flavorful variant.
Other varieties include Black IPA, which combines the floral aromas of hops with the roasted notes specific to dark beer, Milkshake IPA enriched with lactose and often with fruit, Brut IPA extremely dry and effervescent, and Fruited IPA with added fruit.
The popularity of these varieties has influenced the craft beer market, encouraging consumers to explore new and complex flavors. Whether you prefer the intense bitterness of a West Coast IPA or the velvety texture of a NEIPA, there is an IPA for every taste.
Exploring IPA beer reveals a universe of flavors and styles, from the classic bitterness of West Coast IPA to the fruity notes of modern variations. Experiment with different types, discover your preferences, and enjoy the complexity of this craft beer.
Recommendations for IPA beers produced in Zăganu
For those interested in experimenting with quality local IPAs, Bere Zaganu offers a few variants worth trying:
-
Zaganu IPA – A balanced beer with citrus and resinous notes, which brings an extra freshness and pleasant bitterness. Ideal for those who want to discover an authentic IPA with a classic profile.
-
Zaganu 500 Imperial IPA – A robust variant, with a higher alcohol content and strong bitterness, offering an intense and complex experience, suitable for connoisseurs.
-
Zaganu Double Rye IPA – This beer combines the strength of a Double IPA with the distinct flavor of rye, offering spicy notes and a memorable finish, perfect for those looking for something different and innovative.
If you want to try all the IPA beers produced by Zăganu, we have prepared a special Bundle for you, with 2 bottles of each of the 6 types of IPA beer. Enjoy! 😉
How to enjoy and pair IPA beer
Enjoying an IPA beer is an experience that involves more than just tasting it. To truly enjoy its complex flavors and characteristic bitterness, it is important to serve it at the right temperature and pair it with foods that compliment its flavor profile.
Ideal serving temperature
To fully enjoy the complexity of IPA beer, serving temperature is essential. IPAs are generally served between 7 and 10°C, an optimal temperature that manages to highlight the fresh and intense aromas of the hops, but also slightly attenuates the strong bitterness. If the beer is served too cold, the aromas will feel dull and the taste profile will become flat. Conversely, a slightly higher temperature will allow the aromatic molecules to release, offering a more complex bouquet and a more balanced taste.
For more robust IPAs, such as Double IPA or Imperial IPA, you can experiment with serving at a slightly higher temperature (around 10-12°C) to intensify the flavors and mouthfeel.
Suitable foods for pairing
IPA beer is versatile and can be paired with a wide range of dishes, as its bitterness and complex flavors can balance and enhance the flavors of food. Here are some classic and inspired recommendations:
-
Spicy dishes
The bitterness and citrus notes of IPA are ideal for tempering and balancing the intensity of spicy dishes, such as Mexican, Thai, or Indian. For example, a spicy curry or chili con carne will be perfectly harmonized with a refreshing IPA. -
Burgers and grilled meat dishes
Whether it's a juicy burger, smoked ribs, or grilled steaks, IPA, with its fresh bitterness, helps to "cleanse" the palate and provides a pleasant contrast to the rich, fatty taste of the meat. -
Hard or moldy cheeses
Cheeses like mature cheddar, gouda, parmesan, or blue cheeses pair well with an IPA, as the bitterness and acidity of the beer balance the texture and intensity of the cheeses, creating a sophisticated taste balance. -
Dark chocolate desserts
Although IPA is a bitter beer, the combination with dark chocolate can be surprisingly pleasant. The fruity and citrus notes can complement the intense and slightly bitter taste of the chocolate, providing a complex and balanced taste experience.
Tasting tips
For the best tasting experience, try using a tulip or IPA glass, which allows the aromas to release and concentrates the hop bouquet. Observe the color, smell the aromas before tasting, and let the beer warm slightly in the glass to reveal all its nuances.
Discover the authentic flavor of IPA beer with Zăganu
IPA beer is a true feast for the senses, a lively style with complex flavors and a bitterness that remains in the memory. If you want to experience this fascinating world of craft beer, we invite you to discover the range of IPAs masterfully produced by Zăganu. Whether you prefer a classic and balanced IPA, a Strong Imperial IPA or an innovative rye variant, Zăganu offers you carefully crafted options to satisfy any beer enthusiast.
Explore Pale IPA collection and be surprised by the authentic tastes that combine the tradition of craft beer with local innovation. Enjoy a refreshing Zăganu IPA or a Zăganu Double Rye IPA with spicy notes – all perfect for moments of relaxation and socializing.
Choose to enjoy a complete IPA beer experience, where every glass tells a story about passion, quality ingredients and the art of brewing. Raise a glass to those who carry on this tradition and savor the unique taste of an authentic IPA beer, brewed in Romania.