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Session IPA: history, recipe, and tasting tips
What is a Session IPA?
Session IPA is a variant of India Pale Ale designed to be consumed in sessions: it maintains the typical aroma and bitterness of an IPA but with a lower alcohol content (usually below 5% ABV) and greater drinkability. Perfect for those seeking hoppy and citrus profiles without the alcoholic impact of a Double or Imperial IPA.
History of session beer
The concept of "session beer" comes from the desire to drink more beers in a single "session" without exceeding alcohol limits. In the last fifteen years, Session IPA has gained popularity as a response to interest in aromatic hops combined with a longer tasting culture. In Italy, some pioneering craft breweries have helped spread it by adding local ingredients or different techniques.
Basic homebrewing recipe (20 L)
- OG: 1.038–1.045; FG: 1.008–1.012; ABV: 3,5–4,5%.
- Malts: Pilsner or Pale Ale + 5–10% light caramel malt for structure.
- Hops: American/modern aromatic varieties (Citra, Mosaic, Amarillo, Simcoe). IBU 30–45.
- Dry hopping: substantial for intense aromas without increasing alcohol.
- Fermentation: ale yeast at 16–20°C for clean esters.
- Optional: citrus peels (grapefruit, lemon) at the end of boiling.
- Infusion at 65–67°C for 60 min. Boil 60 min. Late additions and dry hop for aroma and freshness.
Well-known examples: Fuller's and Fourpure
Fuller's (UK) has a long tradition in session beers; Fourpure (London) is known for modern and hop-forward experiments. Fuller's is more traditional, Fourpure more craft and experimental.
An Italian example: Mezza T.S.O.
Inspired by TSO but with half the alcohol, Mezza T.S.O. by La Casa di Cura is a Session IPA with New England character thanks to the yeast used.
Buy Mezza T.S.O. Session IPA by La Casa di Cura on Maltese →
How to taste and pair a Session IPA
- Temperature: 6–8°C in a pint or Ale glass.
- Pairings: citrus salads, grilled fish, tacos, tomato-based dishes, and fresh cheeses.
Quick FAQs
- How much alcohol? Usually 3.5–4.5% ABV, always under 5%.
- Difference from a traditional IPA? Less body and alcohol, but the same aromatic intensity thanks to dry hopping.
- Hard to brew at home? No: the challenge is balancing aroma and bitterness with a moderate OG.
Discover the selection of Session IPA and hopped beers on Maltese → Session IPA, NEIPA, APA. Shipping in Italy 24-48h.
