Guide to West Coast IPA and why try Level Up
The West Coast IPA is a hoppy, dry, and crystal-clear beer style, born and perfected on the west coast of the United States. It is characterized by intense hop aromas and flavors (citrus, resin, pine, tropical fruit depending on the hops), pronounced bitterness, and a clean finish that highlights the hop profile.
Main characteristics
- Aromatic profile: citrus, resin, pine, tropical fruits (depending on hops like Citra, Centennial, Simcoe)
- Body: medium-light, dry
- Appearance: clear, bright
- Bitterness: medium-high, balanced by a simple malt
West Coast IPA vs Northeast (New England) IPA and East Coast IPA
- West Coast IPA: clear, dry, bitter, well-defined hops with resinous/citrus notes; lighter body.
- New England / Northeast IPA: hazy, soft, juicy, lightly bitter, very intense tropical fruit aroma thanks to late hopping.
- East Coast IPA: a more varied term, often between the two extremes depending on the brewery.
In short: if you want bitterness and clarity choose West Coast; if you prefer juiciness and softness, go for NEIPA.
How to make a West Coast IPA: basic recipe
- Malts: light base (Pilsner or Pale Ale) + small percentage of light caramel malts.
- Hops: Citra, Centennial, Simcoe, Amarillo, Cascade. Generous dry hopping for aroma.
- Yeast: clean and attenuating strains (American ale yeast).
- Goal: balance bitterness with a not too full body and keep the beer clear.
Indicative recipe (20 L): 4.5 kg Pale Malt, 0.3 kg Munich, 0.2 kg Carapils; 30 g bittering hops (60'), 50 g aroma hops (15' and whirlpool), 150-200 g dry hop Citra/Simcoe. Yeast US-05. Ferment at 18-20°C.
Food pairings and serving tips
- Temperature: 8–10 °C to enhance aroma and bitterness.
- Glasses: tulip or pint glass to concentrate aromas.
- Pairings: spicy dishes, grilled foods, flavorful hamburgers, aged cheeses.
Why try Level Up
Level Up is a West Coast IPA born from the collaboration between Birrificio WAR and Level Beer from Portland, Oregon — presented at Beer&Food Attraction 2025. Intense fruity aromas, balanced mouthfeel, and good hoppiness make it ideal for lovers of the style.
If you want to explore the entire IPA range from Birrificio WAR:
Conclusion
The West Coast IPA is perfect for those looking for a hoppy, clear, and bitter beer. Level Up — the collaboration between Birrificio WAR and Level Beer from Portland — is available on Maltese.beer with 24/48h shipping.
