Looking back over the rise of craft beer in America over the last 40 years the style most responsible for interest and growth is the India pale ale. While much of the focus these days is the hazy double dry hopped versions that rely on juicy flavors, the original is lovingly known as the West Coast IPA, or categorically as the American IPA.
Filtered clear and often deep golden in color, this style of IPA highlights a decidedly hoppy, that is to say bitter, profile. The use of classic hop varieties like Simcoe, Cascade, Amarillo, Chinook, Columbus, and others bring a resinous pine to the forefront along with citrus.
Bitterness can be a virture and add to the overall drinking experience.
A proper malt bill is also important to this style. The style…
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Wine Enthusiast (Digital) - 1 Issue, August/September 2022