What is India pale ale?

Question

TasteAtlas · Accepted Answer

India pale ale is one of the most intriguing beer styles whose origin is still widely disputed, but it is believed that it first appeared out of necessity to transport pale ale brews to distant British colonies—namely India—because the climate in the colonies was too hot to brew beer.

It is believed that IPA was created by increasing alcohol levels and adding more hops—which would help preserve the beer on longer voyages. Although the first reference of the name India pale ale dates back to 1830s, it is assumed that the style appeared much earlier.

The prototype is believed to have been created in the 1780s, by a brewer Hodgson. By adding more hops, when the beers would reach the destination, they attained a distinctive refreshing character, and would surprisingly improve with age. Because they were light and crisp, India pale ales became a favorite in hot and humid climates. Read more

By the end of the 19th century, brewing practices shifted to lagers, and IPA slowly lost its stronghold. It was not until the 1980s that American microbreweries reintroduced it, achieving spectacular results, and making IPA one of the favorite styles nowadays.

Not surprisingly, India pale ale was also reintroduced in England—where it was initially invented. Nowadays, most examples will have dominant hop character, and while English versions will have flowery and spicy nuances, American IPA tends to display a slightly different character that includes tropical fruit and pine.

Most IPA styles pair well with spicy and hearty dishes, Asian cuisine, grilled and fried meat, as well as various types of cheese.