Looking for Italian craft IPAs? Discover the selection on Maltese — West Coast IPA, NEIPA, Session IPA, Double IPA, and much more. Shipping 24-48h.
Quick guide to IPAs: what they are, how they differ, and which to try
India Pale Ales (IPA) are among the most loved craft beers: intensely hopped, often aromatic, and with a well-defined character.
What is a Pale Ale?
Pale Ale is a beer category based on light malt, balanced between malt and hops: moderate body, fruity or biscuity aroma. IPAs are a subcategory with more intense hop use and stronger bitterness.
IPA vs Lager: the main differences
- Fermentation: IPA = top fermentation (ale); Lager = bottom fermentation.
- Aroma: IPA is intense (citrus, resin, tropical); Lager is cleaner and maltier.
- Bitterness: IPA is often more bitter; Lager generally softer.
- Occasions: Lager for freshness; IPA for aromatic complexity.
APA vs IPA: what's the difference?
- Hop intensity: APA is more moderate compared to IPA.
- Bitterness and alcohol: APA is more restrained.
- Balance: APA balances malt and hops; IPA pushes the hop profile forward.
The main IPA styles to know
West Coast IPA
Dry, resinous, very bitter, with citrus and pine hops.
Buy Make West Coast IPA Great Again by Ritual Lab on Maltese →
Session IPA
A lighter alcohol version but rich in hop aroma, designed for easier drinking.
Buy Half T.S.O. Session IPA by La Casa di Cura on Maltese →
New England IPA (NEIPA)
Hazy, smooth on the palate, rich in fruity and tropical aromas, with softer bitterness.
Double/Imperial IPA
Higher alcohol and intensely hopped, with amplified bitterness and aromas.
Black IPA
Dark color with a pronounced hop profile and light toasted notes from the malt.
An Italian IPA to try
Buy Camilla's IPA by Gritz Brewing on Maltese →
Practical tips to enjoy an IPA
- Serve at 8–12°C in a tulip glass to concentrate the aromas.
- Pairings: curry, spiced hamburgers, aged cheeses, barbecue sauce.
- Taste different variants to understand if you prefer resinous hops, citrusy notes, or the fruity profiles of NEIPA.
Discover the selection of craft IPA on Maltese → West Coast, NEIPA, Session, Double IPA and much more. Shipping in Italy 24-48h.
