Indian Pale Ale (IPA) is getting more and more attention in recent years, as more breweries around the world are making their own version. Here are some facts you might have missed about this delicious hoppy beer.
History
The first IPA was produced in England as early as the beginning of the 18th century. It was later exported to India, where, under British colonization, it became a favorite with the workers of the East India Company.
Name
While it was not originated in Australia, that’s where it was first named IPA. In 1829, the Sydney Gazette newspaper published an ad about the import of “East India Pale Ale” beers, without mentioning the breweries who made it.
Temperature
Nowadays IPA is normally served at a temperature of between 7 and 10 C. But Originally it was served ice-cold. One of the sources of this difference is attributed to the difference between the warm Indian weather and the chilly one in the UK.
IPA Styles
Unlike what some people think, IPA doesn’t describe just one type of beer. The balance between malt and hops can make very different results. Some of the more known types of IPA are New England IPA, Black IPA and Double IPA.
Alcohol
IPA beers are known for their relatively high percentage of alcohol. This had led people to believe the reason for it is that it had to travel for a long period of time in the ocean. However, this is just a myth. In fact, the classical IPAs of the 18th century had a lower alcohol rate or around 6%.
