Few beers are as divisive as the IPA (India pale ale). Those who love IPAs tend to stick with them; people who prefer less hoppy brews usually steer clear. Still, not all IPAs are created equal. Today’s craft brewers have taken the IPA in many directions, appealing to a broader audience of beer enthusiasts. But rather than get into the weeds, it’s worth setting the record straight on the two most common types of IPA out there: the traditional IPA and the New England IPA.
Let’s dive into the rich and hoppy world of the difference between these craft beer favorites.
What Is an IPA?
An India pale ale is a hoppy-type beer characterized by its sharp bitterness and aromatic qualities, often featuring notes of citrus, pine, and floral hops. This style of beer originated in England in the late 18th century. IPAs were initially brewed to survive long sea voyages to British colonies in India. The high hop content and alcohol levels acted as natural preservatives to help the beer remain fresh during the journey.
Over time, IPAs evolved and gained popularity in the craft beer scene, particularly in the United States. American brewers began experimenting with different hops and brewing techniques, resulting in a diverse range of IPAs that showcase unique flavors.
Traditional IPAs are known for their distinct flavor profile, which includes a strong, hoppy bitterness balanced by a malt overtone. The beer typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 5% to 7.5%, making it a bold yet refreshing choice for beer enthusiasts.
What Makes Something a New England IPA?
A New England IPA (NEIPA), also known as a hazy IPA, is a style of India pale ale known for its hazy appearance and juicy, fruity flavor profile. Originally from the New England region of the United States, this beer style emerged in the early 2000s and quickly gained widespread popularity due to its unique, thirst-quenching taste. The rise in popularity of New England IPAs inspired innovative brewers in New England to experiment with brewing techniques and ingredients to create a softer, more fruit-forward IPA.
Key characteristics of a NEIPA include its hazy or opaque appearance, often described as “juicy” due to the abundance of hop-derived fruity flavors and aromas. These flavors typically include tropical fruits, citrus, and stone fruits, making the beer highly aromatic and flavorful.
The brewing techniques that differentiate NEIPAs from traditional IPAs include dry hopping, where hops are added during or after fermentation to maximize aroma without increasing bitterness. Additionally, NEIPAs often utilize specific yeast strains that contribute to the hazy appearance and enhance the fruity flavors in the beer.
What Is the Difference Between an IPA and a New England IPA?
Both styles of beer have their unique charm, catering to different preferences within the craft beer community. When comparing traditional IPAs and New England IPAs, several key characteristics set them apart:
Appearance
Traditional IPA: Clear and bright, showcasing a golden to amber hue.
NEIPA: Hazy or cloudy, with a more opaque appearance.
Flavor Profile
Traditional IPA: Bitter and hop-forward, with prominent notes of pine, resin, and sometimes citrus. The bitterness is a defining feature, often balanced by a malt overtone.
NEIPA: Juicy and fruity. The bitterness is significantly less than traditional IPAs, allowing the fruity hop flavors to shine through.
Mouthfeel/Texture
Traditional IPA: Crisp and dry, with a finish that highlights the hop bitterness.
NEIPA: Smooth and creamy, often due to the addition of oats or wheat.
Aroma
Traditional IPA: Piney and resinous, with occasional hints of citrus or floral notes. The aroma is sharp, and the flavor is centered on the hop bitterness.
NEIPA: Tropical, citrusy, and bursting with fruity aromas that can include mango, pineapple, orange, and other exotic fruits. The aroma is intense and inviting, with minimal bitterness.
Taste the Difference Yourself
Experience the unique characteristics of IPAs and New England IPAs firsthand when you visit Blackhorse Pub and Brewery to sip on local craft beer. Our Blackorse IPA, Pow Pow New England Style IPA, or Stargazer Hazy IPA are great places to start when exploring the different types of IPAs we offer. For both seasoned IPA enthusiasts and newcomers to the Tennessee craft beer scene, Blackhorse offers a variety of expertly brewed beers of the highest quality.
