IPAs, or India Pale Ales, have become an increasingly popular style of beer in recent years, and with good reason. Known for their bold and flavorful hop profiles, IPAs come in a wide variety of styles and flavors that can cater to every beer lover’s preference. From hoppy delights to tropical infusions, here are our top IPA beers worth trying.
First on the list is the classic West Coast IPA. This style is characterized by its piney, citrusy, and bitter flavor profile, and is often higher in alcohol content. One of the most iconic West Coast IPAs is the Stone IPA, brewed by Stone Brewing. With its crisp and clean taste and a perfect balance of hops and malt, this beer is a must-try for IPA enthusiasts.
Next up is the New England IPA, also known as a hazy IPA. This style is known for its juicy and tropical fruit flavors and its hazy appearance. The 3-Way IPA by Fort George Brewery is a prime example of a delicious hazy IPA, with its abundance of fruity flavors and a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
For those who prefer a more bitter and intense hop experience, the double IPA is the way to go. Double IPAs, also known as Imperial IPAs, pack a punch with higher alcohol content and a more aggressive hop profile. The Pliny the Elder by Russian River Brewing Company is widely regarded as one of the best double IPAs on the market, with its intense hoppy aroma and balanced bitterness.
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try a sour IPA. This style combines the tartness of a sour beer with the boldness of an IPA, resulting in a complex and refreshing flavor profile. The SeaQuench Ale by Dogfish Head Brewery is a great example of a sour IPA, with its bright citrus flavors and a subtle tartness that perfectly complements the hop character.
Lastly, for those who love the tropical and fruity flavors in their IPAs, a tropical IPA is the way to go. These beers often incorporate tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, and passionfruit to create a refreshing and exotic flavor profile. The Jucifer by Gnarly Barley Brewing Company is a fantastic tropical IPA, with its explosion of juicy pineapple and mango flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every sip.
In conclusion, the world of IPAs is vast and diverse, with a style to suit every beer lover’s taste. From the classic West Coast IPA to the hazy New England IPA and the exotic tropical IPA, there are plenty of options to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re a hophead or just looking to expand your beer horizons, these top IPA beers are definitely worth trying. Cheers!
