Domani Smetto: the perfect Session IPA for summer — order it now
If you’re looking for a fresh, aromatic, and easy-to-drink craft beer for summer, Domani Smetto by Birra Gaia is the answer. Tropical and citrus notes, low alcohol content, balanced bitterness — everything you want from a quality Session IPA. Available online at Maltese with shipping throughout Italy.
🛒 Buy Domani Smetto on Maltese
What is a Session IPA?
A Session IPA is a variant of India Pale Ale that retains the aromatic character and bitterness typical of IPA — citrusy, tropical, and exotic hops — but with a lower alcohol content, usually between 3.0% and 5.0% ABV. The goal is to enjoy more sessions without the alcoholic effect of stronger IPAs. Perfect for barbecues, aperitifs, and hot days.
Brief history of Session Beer
The concept of "session" comes from British beer culture: a "session" is an extended period of moderate drinking. In recent decades, craft brewers have applied the same approach to IPAs, creating lighter but aromatic versions. Today, Session IPAs are among the most popular styles in Italian and European craft beer.
How is a Session IPA made?
- Malt: light base (pilsner or pale malt) with small additions of caramel malts for body and honeyed notes
- Strength: moderate OG to keep ABV low, low FG for greater drinkability
- Hops: aromatic varieties (citrus, tropical, pine) with generous dry hopping
- Bitterness: moderate and balanced, typical IBU 30–50
- Fermentation: neutral or slightly fruity yeasts to preserve aromas
Why choose a Session IPA in summer?
- Low alcohol: you can enjoy more than one without feeling too much alcohol effect
- Aromatic freshness: tropical and citrus hops refresh the palate
- Easy to drink: light body and clean finish, ideal for warm weather
If you want to try one right away, Domani Smetto is a perfect example: clear, very fresh, with tropical and citrus notes that make it irresistible on hot days.
Taste profile and pairings
Typical profile: citrus and exotic hop notes balanced by a light honey/biscuit malt character and moderate bitterness. Recommended pairings:
- Spicy or seasoned foods (Thai cuisine, mild Indian dishes)
- Grilled fish and summer salads
- Light smoky flavors and fresh cheeses
- Artisanal snacks: try it with Maltese’s artisanal cured meats and chips
Another Session IPA not to miss
If you love the style, also try Mezza T.S.O. by La Casa di Cura: inspired by TSO but with half the alcohol, it has a New England character with fruity hops and extraordinary drinkability.
How to serve a Session IPA
- Temperature: 6–8 °C to enhance aromas and freshness
- Glassware: pint or tulip glass to concentrate aromas — discover tasting glasses on Maltese
- Pouring: tilted to preserve body and get a good foam
Buy Session IPA on Maltese
Domani Smetto and the best craft Session IPAs are available online at Maltese with shipping throughout Italy. Perfect alone or in a summer tasting box.
