The world of IPA (India Pale Ale) is an endless playground for the palate. Between the fruity explosion of a NEIPA, the sharp bitterness of a West Coast, and the lightness of a Session, it's easy to get lost. This guide is here to demystify the style and help you find that perfect brew, whether you're a craft beer expert or a curious newcomer looking for new flavours.
How to Choose Your IPA??
Before you dive into our selection, here are a few key points to help you decode the world of hoppy beer.
1. Understand the Main IPA Styles
The term IPA covers several variations with very distinct profiles?:
- West Coast IPA?: Born on the American West Coast, this style is defined by its clean, assertive bitterness, supported by resinous (pine) and citrus (grapefruit) aromas. Its appearance is typically clear, and it has a very dry finish.
- NEIPA (New England IPA)?: A more recent creation, the NEIPA (pronounced "nay-IPA") is in a league of its own. It's recognisable by its cloudy (hazy) appearance and its silky, almost juicy texture. The bitterness is subtle, making way for an explosion of tropical fruit aromas (mango, pineapple, passion fruit).
- Session IPA?: Its motto? All the flavour, without the high alcohol content. Lighter in alcohol (usually under 5% ABV), it retains the aromatic punch of a classic IPA while being far more drinkable. Perfect for those longer tasting sessions.
2. Decode the Flavours?: Bitterness and Aromas
Bitterness, measured in IBU (International Bitterness Units), is the backbone of an IPA. A high IBU promises pronounced bitterness, but remember, it's all about balance. A bitter beer is never aggressive if it's well-balanced with fruity notes or a malty sweetness. This is where the choice of hops becomes strategic?: some are used for bitterness, while others, added cold at the end of the brewing process (the famous dry hopping), are all about releasing maximum aroma.
3. Explore Your Options?: With or Without Alcohol
Fortunately, the pleasure of a good IPA is no longer exclusive to alcoholic beers. The market is now filled with excellent non-alcoholic IPAs and low-alcohol options. Thanks to increasingly sophisticated brewing techniques, they manage to retain a complex aromatic profile and a satisfying bitterness. A genuinely great alternative for any occasion.
Our Recommended IPAs to Try
Enough theory, it's time for a tasting! Here are a few gems that perfectly illustrate the richness of the IPA style, chosen for their character and the quality of their brewing.
BBP Pico Bello Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA 0.3%
- Why it stands out?: The Pico Bello pulls off the impressive feat of delivering a true Hazy IPA... without the alcohol. Its secret? A welcome acidity that sets it apart from the often overly sweet non-alcoholic beers on the market.
- Pros?:
- Very low alcohol content (0.3%).
- Fruity aromatic profile and a hazy texture.
- Light bitterness and a tart finish.
- Who is it for??: Ideal for those who want the character of a non-alcoholic IPA without compromising on taste, and for fans of light, tart beers.
GALLIA Blonde West Coast IPA 6%
- Why it stands out?: This beer from the Parisian brewery Gallia is a superb tribute to the classics of the style. It's the archetypal West Coast IPA?: clean bitterness with pronounced notes of citrus and pine.
- Pros?:
- Clean and powerful bitterness, typical of the style.
- Dry on the palate with a crisp finish.
- Intense citrus and tropical fruit aromas.
- Who is it for??: For purists who love a well-defined bitter beer and the characteristic resinous flavours of American West Coast IPAs.
BBP Juice Junkie NEIPA 5.4%
- Why it stands out?: Its name is a promise: Juice Junkie is pure, hoppy fruit juice. It's the quintessential NEIPA, with a velvety texture and tropical aromas that explode on the palate.
- Pros?:
- A very fruity profile with notes of mango and pineapple.
- Very gentle bitterness, with a focus entirely on aromatics.
- An all-star hop trio: Citra, Simcoe, Mosaic.
- Who is it for??: Perfect for fans of juicy, low-bitterness beers, or for anyone looking to discover the New England IPA style at its most indulgent.
Gallia No Compromise Session IPA 4.3%
- Why it stands out?: Gallia's "No Compromise" lives up to its name, proving you can lower the alcohol without sacrificing taste. This Session IPA delivers beautiful aromatic intensity in a highly refreshing format.
- Pros?:
- Low alcohol content (4.3%) for great drinkability.
- Intense hoppy character with notes of citrus and pine resin.
- Light body with a crisp, bitter finish.
- Who is it for??: The perfect choice for those who want to enjoy IPA flavours during a long happy hour or a casual meal, without the high alcohol content.
Looking for Other Options??
This selection is, of course, just a starting point. Want to explore other styles, from imperial stouts to tart sours? Take a look at our complete collection.
Discover Our Complete Selection of Craft Beers
Frequently Asked Questions
IPA vs. NEIPA?: What's the Difference??
To put it simply, they're almost polar opposites in appearance, bitterness, and aroma.
- IPA (Classic/West Coast)?: Clear, pronounced bitterness, pine and citrus aromas, dry finish.
- NEIPA?: Cloudy (hazy), low bitterness, tropical fruit aromas, a rounder and juicier texture.
How Do You Store an IPA to Keep It at Its Best??
Hop aromas are fragile. To preserve them, the golden rule is simple: store your IPAs upright, in a cool, dark place (the fridge is your best friend). And most importantly, don't let them age! They are best enjoyed fresh, so drink them within a few months of purchase.
Is Buying Beer Online Risky??
Not at all! Buying beer online is now a completely safe and reliable practice. Specialised retailers know what they're doing: they use ultra-durable packaging to ensure your precious cans and bottles arrive intact. Just make sure the site offers secure payments and clear delivery information for a seamless experience.
