IPA – The Hazy Craze: A Guide for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
Craft beer enthusiasts all over the world are going crazy over the latest trend in the beer world – Hazy IPAs. These hazy brews are known for their cloudy appearance, juicy flavor, and a distinctive aroma that is quite different from the traditional Indian Pale Ales.
In this article, we are going to guide you through everything you need to know about the Hazy IPAs. From the history and origin of the style to the differences between hazy and traditional IPAs, we’ve got you covered.
What is an IPA?
IPA stands for India Pale Ale. It was a style of beer that originated in England during the 18th century. British brewers created this beer style by adding more hops, a natural preservative, to their traditional pale ale to help it survive the long journey to India, which was a British colony at that time.
Today, IPAs are one of the most popular beer styles in the world. They are divided into three main categories, namely American, English, and Belgian-style IPAs. Each style has its unique flavors and characteristics.
The Origin of Hazy IPAs
The Hazy IPA, also known as New England IPA, emerged in the early 2010s in New England, United States. The breweries such as The Alchemist, Hill Farmstead Brewery, and Tree House Brewing Company popularized this style by brewing hazy IPAs that were fruity, juicy, and very smooth.
Unlike traditional IPAs, which are known for their clear appearance, hazy IPAs are cloudy and opaque in appearance similar to a fruit juice. Brewers achieve this haze by utilizing ingredients like wheat malt, oats, and rye, and adding a second round of dry-hopping to the brewing process.
What Makes Hazy IPAs Different from Traditional IPAs?
The primary difference between traditional and hazy IPAs is in their appearance, flavor profile, and aroma. Traditional IPAs are clear and crisp, while hazy IPAs have a cloudy hazy appearance due to more unfiltered ingredients.
The flavor profile of hazy IPAs is generally less bitter than traditional IPAs, with a more fruity and juicy character. Hazy IPAs also have a unique aroma, which is described as hoppy, citrusy, and tropical.
Why are Hazy IPAs So Popular?
Hazy IPAs have attracted a massive following among craft beer enthusiasts in recent years. One reason for their popularity is the unique flavor profile they offer. Hazy IPAs are known for their juicy, fruity, and less bitter taste.
Another reason for their popularity is their cloudy hazy appearance, which sets them apart from the clear appearance of traditional IPAs. The haze in the beer signifies that the malt and hops have not been excessively filtered and have a different flavor profile.
How To Serve Hazy IPA?
Hazy IPAs should be served between 45-55°F to enjoy their full flavor and aroma. This serving temperature helps to highlight the fruity and juicy character of the hazy IPA style.
To serve, pour the beer into a glass carefully, allowing the head to form, and appreciate the beer’s aroma and flavor characteristics before taking a sip. Being an unfiltered beer, it is recommended to avoid shaking the bottle or can before serving as it will disturb the flavor and aroma.
FAQs about Hazy IPAs
Are Hazy IPAs more expensive than traditional IPAs?
Generally, hazy IPAs are more expensive because they require more ingredients such as wheat and oats, and a more specialized brewing process.
How long do Hazy IPAs last?
Hazy IPAs have a relatively short shelf life of about six to eight weeks, which is shorter than traditional IPAs. To keep the flavor and aroma intact, it is recommended to store the beer in the refrigerator.
What are some popular brands of Hazy IPAs?
Some popular brands in the hazy IPA market are Tree House Brewing Company’s Julius, The Alchemist’s Heady Topper, Trillium Brewing Company’s Congregation, Hill Farmstead Brewery’s Double Citra, among others.
In conclusion, Hazy IPAs offer craft beer enthusiasts an exciting and unique flavor and aroma that sets them apart from traditional IPAs. The brewing process and ingredients used in producing hazy IPAs make them an expensive but enjoyable drink that can be paired with a variety of food options. So next time you visit your local brewery or craft beer shop, consider trying a hazy IPA, and you might discover your new favorite beer style.