IPA beer: complete guide to styles, flavors, and the best to try
The IPAs (India Pale Ale) are the most loved and discussed craft beers worldwide. Hoppy, aromatic, with profiles ranging from citrus to resin to tropical fruits: this guide explains everything — what they are, which styles exist, how to taste them, and which to try first.
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What is an IPA?
IPA stands for India Pale Ale: it is a family of ale beers characterized by a strong use of hops that provide intense aromas and flavors — citrus, grapefruit, resin, pine nut, and tropical notes are common.
They typically have a medium-high alcohol content and a dry finish that highlights the bitterness of the hops.
Why are IPAs so popular?
- Aromatic explosion: modern hops release fruity and resinous scents that attract many enthusiasts
- Versatility: there are many variants (West Coast, New England, Double, Session) for different tastes
- Pairings: they go well with spicy and flavorful foods
IPA vs lager: what’s the difference?
- Fermentation: IPAs are ales (high-temperature fermentation), lagers use low-temperature yeasts
- Aroma and taste: IPAs are hoppy and aromatic; lagers tend to be cleaner, smoother, and less bitter
- Body and carbonation: many lagers are lighter and more sparkling, while IPAs range from light to full body
- Pairings: lagers with light foods; IPAs with spicy, grilled, or flavorful dishes
IPA vs APA: what's the difference?
"Pale Ale" is a broad term for beers with a good balance between malt and hops. APA (American Pale Ale) is the American version: it uses American hops (citrus notes) but is generally less bitter and lower in alcohol than an IPA.
- APA: more balanced, less dominant hops, moderate citrus aroma
- IPA: more hop-forward, more bitter, more intense aromas, and higher alcohol content
IPA styles to know
- West Coast IPA: dry, resinous, very bitter, clear hoppy profile — learn more about the differences between styles →
- New England / Hazy IPA: soft, fruity, less bitter, cloudy appearance — Hazy IPA guide →
- Double / Imperial IPA: higher alcohol and intensely hoppy — Double IPA guide →
- Session IPA: low alcohol, hoppy aroma, easy to drink — Session IPA guide →
- Black IPA: roasted notes, dark color, hoppy profile — Black IPA guide →
How to best taste an IPA
- Temperature: 8–12 °C to enhance the aromas without masking the malt’s delicacy
- Glass: tulip or goblet to concentrate the aromas
- Pairings: spicy Asian cuisine, grilled dishes, aged cheeses, savory fried foods
- Tasting: look for balance between bitterness, malt sweetness, and hop aromas
The best Italian IPAs to try
The scene of Italian IPAs has exploded in recent years: Italian craft breweries have embraced the style with their own personality, often favoring American and New Zealand hops for tropical and intense citrus notes.
Frequently asked questions about IPAs
Is an IPA always bitter?
Not always: modern Hazy IPAs balance bitterness with intense fruity aromas that make them much smoother and more approachable.
Do IPAs always have a lot of alcohol?
No — Session IPAs are designed for low alcohol content (under 4.5%). Double/Imperial IPAs often reach 7-10% ABV.
How to choose your first IPA?
Start with an APA or a Session IPA. Then explore the Hazy (softer and fruitier) and the West Coast (drier and more resinous) to understand your preferences.
IPA and food: what pairings?
IPAs pair perfectly with spicy cuisine (Thai, Indian, Mexican), burgers, aged cheeses, and pizza with flavorful ingredients. The bitterness of the hops cleanses the palate from fats.
Discover the full selection of craft IPA on Maltese — shipping in 24-48h throughout Italy →
