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Whether you tend to gravitate toward commercial beer brews or prefer a craft beer when you go out, you’ve probably seen certain menu items listed as “IPA.” IPA stands for “India pale ale” and refers to the beer’s origins. IPAs use more hops than other beers, but the distinctions go well beyond that. 

Where IPAs Come From 

The term IPA dates back several hundred years. When British sailors traversed the waters between Britain and India, they added extra hops to their barrels of ale to help preserve the beer. The journeys were long, however, and over time, the hops overtook the fruit-tinged flavors of the beer, leaving it with a bitter taste—and with a higher alcohol content. 

While there is some disagreement over the accuracy of this origin story, what is true is that IPAs originated in Britain. Today, British-style IPA craft beer tends to be less bitter than most American IPAs, and retains more fruit-like flavor. That doesn’t mean American IPAs are all the same, though.

On the American craft beer scene, IPAs are designated “East Coast” and “West Coast.” East Coast IPAs are the most bitter and have the least amount of fruit flavor. West Coast IPAs, on the other hand, are not nearly as bitter and often have a hint of tropical fruit flavor.

There are also some regional IPAs that don’t necessarily fall into a specific category. For example, New England IPAs are very popular and have intense fruit flavors and very little bitterness. They are often a good starting point for people who want to try craft beer but don’t necessarily like IPAs.

The Language of IPAs

craft beersAlthough knowing the regional style of the IPA can help you order one you’ll enjoy, knowing the vocabulary of the brews can also help. Some of the common terms you might encounter include:

  • Session: These are less full-bodied beers with an alcohol content of 4-5%.
  • Double/Imperial: These beers have a higher alcohol content due to the increase in malt used to balance the increased hops used. 
  • Dry hopped: This means that the brewer adds the hops to the beer while it’s fermenting, not while the liquid is boiling. It doesn’t add any flavor or bitterness but it improves the smell of the beer. 
  • Single hopped: These IPAs only use one type of hops, rather than combining different varieties. 
  • Fresh hopped: Often available for only a short time, usually late summer or early fall, these IPAs are made with hops that were harvested within the previous 24 hours, giving them a more intense flavor. 

 

To sample IPAs and craft beers from a variety of breweries, head to Gilly’s Sports Bar in Atlanta, GA. This local restaurant is a favorite because of its casual atmosphere, 20 big-screen televisions, and diverse menu. Call (770) 817-2789 for information on their weekly specials and events from trivia to bingo, and check out their delicious menu items online

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