If you’ve ever stood in front of a craft beer catalog and wondered what exactly India Pale Ale is — and why they’re talking so much about it — you’ve come to the right place.
What is India Pale Ale?
India Pale Ale is a style of beer defined by its strong hop content, significant bitterness, and higher alcohol content than classics. While lagers and weiss are all about balance, IPAs are all about hops.
The name comes from the era of British colonialism, when in the 18th century beer was shipped from England to India with hops, which acted as a natural preservative on the long journey. True or false, the name stuck and the beer evolved.
IPA Key Characteristics:
- Bitterness (IBU): 40–70+ (much higher than lager: 10–20)
- Alcohol (ABV): Typically 5.5%–7.5%
- Color: Golden to deep amber
- Aroma: Citrus, pine, tropical fruit, floral notes
IPA Styles — Not All Are the Same
The term “IPA” covers an impressively broad family of beers:
- West Coast IPA The classic American take. Dry, resinous, aggressively bitter. Citrus, grapefruit, pine. Hops dominate completely.
- East Coast IPA / New England IPA Juicy, hazy, much less bitter. Tropical flavors (mango, passion fruit, pineapple) without harsh bitterness. It tastes like juice and drinks like a smoothie.
- Session IPA Lower alcohol beer. Under 4.5% ABV, easier for extended occasions. Mani Brewery’s NEMA Session Ale falls into this category: tropical flavors, balanced bitterness, 4.5% ABV.
- Imperial / Double IPA (DIPA) The heavy category: 8–10%+ ABV with enhanced hop intensity.
IPA vs Session Ale — What Difference Does It Make in Practice?
This is the question we hear most often in the brewery. Read the full comparison →
| IPA | Session Ale | |
| Alcohol | 5.5% | 4.5% |
| Bitterness (IBU) | 50–70 | 20–40 |
| Body | Medium–full | Light–medium |
| Perfect for | Food | Many beers, everyday |
Frequently Asked Questions About IPA
Is IPA more bitter than regular beer?
Yes, significantly. A typical lager has 10–20 IBU. A classic IPA: 50–70 IBU. If you’re new to IPAs, start with NEMA SESSION ALE — same aromatic complexity, milder bitterness.
Why is IPA so popular?
IPA has become the defining style of the craft beer movement because it offers complexity, variety, and shows the brewery’s identity.
How much alcohol does an IPA have compared to a lager?
Usually more. Typical lager: 4.5–5% ABV. Classic IPA: 5.5