When it comes to exploring different types of IPAs, you may have come across the terms “session IPA” and “regular IPA,” leaving you with a question – what exactly distinguishes them from each other? Let’s dive into the details and discover the fascinating world of these two popular beer styles.
Alcohol By Volume (ABV)
A significant difference between session IPAs and regular IPAs lies in their alcohol content. Regular IPAs, known for their bold and robust flavors, typically boast a higher ABV compared to session IPAs. Traditional double IPAs can typically range from 6% to 8% ABV, while some more potent regular IPAs, such as triple IPAs, can surpass the 10% mark. On the other hand, session IPAs are crafted to be more sessionable, providing a lower alcohol content. The average session IPA generally contains around 6.5% to 8% ABV, offering beer lovers a more moderate and approachable drinking experience.
Intensity of Flavor
As the alcohol content decreases in session IPAs compared to regular IPAs, you might wonder if the flavors are also less intense. While it’s true that session IPAs may have a slightly milder taste profile, they still provide a refreshing burst of hoppy goodness. Regular IPAs are often characterized by their intense bitterness and strong hop presence, creating a robust flavor profile that can be overwhelming for some palates. Session IPAs, on the other hand, aim to strike a balance between the hoppy bitterness and lighter, more drinkable flavors. This allows beer enthusiasts to enjoy the distinctive hop-driven characteristics of an IPA while maintaining a smoother and more approachable taste.
Sessionability and Drinkability
The term “session” in session IPA refers to the idea that you can enjoy multiple beers in one drinking session without feeling overwhelmed. Regular IPAs, with their higher alcohol content and intense flavors, might be best savored slowly or in smaller quantities. In contrast, session IPAs are crafted to be more sessionable, meaning you can indulge in a few without feeling weighed down. The lower ABV and balanced flavor profile of session IPAs make them perfect for longer social gatherings or occasions where you want to enjoy multiple beers without getting too tipsy or fatigued by overwhelming flavors.
Ingredients and Brewing Techniques
Both session IPAs and regular IPAs share similar brewing techniques and ingredients. They are typically brewed using pale malts as a base and feature generous amounts of hops. The hops give IPAs their characteristic bitterness, citrusy, floral, or piney aroma, and contribute to the beer’s overall flavor. However, brewers crafting session IPAs often tweak the brewing process to ensure a more balanced and approachable result. This can involve adjusting hop additions, utilizing different hop varieties, or using less malt to create a lighter body. These slight modifications allow session IPAs to retain the fundamental elements of an IPA while making them more enjoyable and accessible for longer drinking sessions.
Purpose and Occasions
The difference between session IPAs and regular IPAs also lies in their intended purpose and the occasions they are best suited for. Regular IPAs are often the beer of choice for those seeking a bold, hop-forward experience and are commonly savored on their own or paired with strongly flavored foods. The higher alcohol content and intense flavors make them ideal for moments where you want to savor the robustness of an IPA. In contrast, session IPAs are perfect for social gatherings, picnics, or occasions where you desire a more relaxed drinking experience. With their lower ABV and balanced flavors, they can be enjoyed alongside a variety of lighter dishes or as a refreshing quencher on a hot summer day.
Conclusion
In summary, the differences between session IPAs and regular IPAs are primarily rooted in their alcohol content, flavor intensity, drinkability, brewing techniques, and intended purpose. Regular IPAs offer higher alcohol content and intense hop flavors, making them ideal for savoring slowly or pairing with stronger dishes. On the other hand, session IPAs provide a more moderate alcohol content, a balanced flavor profile, and a lighter body, making them perfect for longer drinking sessions and a wider range of social occasions. Both styles have their place in the ever-evolving world of craft beer, catering to different preferences and offering unique experiences for beer enthusiasts to explore.
