When it comes to the world of craft beer, one term that you may often come across is “IPA” or India Pale Ale. But what exactly is the difference between IPA, Double IPA, and Triple IPA? Let’s delve into the hoppy world of these brews and uncover what sets them apart.
The Foundation: IPA
IPA, short for India Pale Ale, is a style of beer that originated in England in the 19th century. It was originally brewed with extra hops and a higher alcohol content to survive long journeys to British colonies, particularly India. The distinctive bitterness and hop-forward flavor profile quickly gained popularity and led to the birth of a craft beer revolution.
Stepping It Up: Double IPA
Double IPA, often referred to as DIPA or Imperial IPA, takes the hop intensity of a traditional IPA and amplifies it. As the name suggests, Double IPAs have a higher alcohol content and a more robust hop character than their IPA counterparts. Typically, a Double IPA falls into the range of 7.6 percent ABV and higher.
The increased malt and hop quantities in Double IPAs provide a bolder and more intense flavor experience. Expect to encounter an explosion of hop flavors, including pine, citrus, floral, and resinous notes. The malt backbone in Double IPAs helps balance out the hop bitterness, resulting in a harmonious and complex brew.
Going the Extra Mile: Triple IPA
If Double IPAs are the big siblings of IPAs, then Triple IPAs are the giants. Triple IPAs, also known as TIPAs or Triple India Pale Ales, take everything that makes a Double IPA great and dial it up even further. With an ABV starting at 10.6 percent and beyond, Triple IPAs offer an even more intense hop and malt experience.
Triple IPAs are characterized by an even higher hop presence, delivering an explosion of flavors that can range from fruity and tropical to resinous and dank. The malt backbone in these brews is substantial, providing a sturdy foundation to support the higher hop load and alcohol content. This balance ensures that despite the overwhelming hoppiness, the flavors remain well-rounded and enjoyable.
Blurring the Lines
While the 7.6 percent ABV and 10.6 percent ABV thresholds are general guidelines for categorizing IPAs, Double IPAs, and Triple IPAs, it’s important to note that there can be some overlap and variations. Brewers often experiment and push boundaries, resulting in beers that may fall into the Triple IPA range but are marketed as Double IPAs or vice versa.
Ultimately, the difference between IPA, Double IPA, and Triple IPA lies in their alcohol content, hop intensity, and malt backbone. IPAs are the classic hop-forward brews, Double IPAs offer a bigger and bolder experience, and Triple IPAs take it up another notch with an even higher ABV and hop profile.
Final Thoughts
Next time you find yourself wondering about the differences between IPA, Double IPA, and Triple IPA, remember that it all comes down to the potency of hops, malt quantities, and alcohol content. Whether you prefer the crisp and refreshing bitterness of an IPA or the bold and hoppy complexity of a Double or Triple IPA, there’s a hoppy brew out there to suit every palate.
