What is India Pale Ale (IPA) and where did it originate?

India Pale Ale, commonly known as IPA, is a style of beer renowned for its bold hop character and higher alcohol content. It originated in England in the 18th century when brewers began exporting pale ales to India. To withstand the long sea voyage, these ales were brewed with higher alcohol and hop levels, resulting in a beer that could better withstand the journey while still remaining flavourful.

Where can you find great India Pale Ale (IPA)?

Great IPA can be found across the globe, with regions like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia being particularly known for their outstanding examples of the style. In the United States, craft breweries in regions like the Pacific Northwest, California, and the Northeast have gained international acclaim for their innovative and flavourful IPAs. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom boasts a rich tradition of brewing classic English-style IPAs, characterized by a more balanced hop profile compared to their American counterparts. Additionally, Australia's craft beer scene has seen a surge in IPA production, with many breweries offering a diverse range of hop-forward and creative interpretations of the style.

What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) range of India Pale Ale (IPA)?

The alcohol by volume (ABV) range of IPA typically falls between 6% and 7.5%. However, some variations, such as Double IPAs (DIPAs) or Imperial IPAs, can have higher ABV levels, ranging from 7.5% to 10% or even higher.

What are some food pairings that go well with India Pale Ale (IPA)?

IPA's bold hop character and higher alcohol content make it a versatile pairing option for a wide range of dishes. Some popular food pairings that go well with IPA include:

1. Spicy foods: IPA's hoppy bitterness can help cut through the heat of spicy dishes, making it an excellent accompaniment to cuisine like Thai, Indian, or Mexican.
2. Bold cheeses: The robust flavours of IPA can stand up to strong and aged cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, blue cheese, or aged gouda.
3. Grilled meats: IPA's hoppy bitterness and higher alcohol content complement the charred and caramelized flavours of grilled meats like burgers, steaks, or barbecue ribs.
4. Citrusy salads: The citrusy and fruity hop aromas of IPA pair well with salads featuring bright and tangy citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit, adding a refreshing contrast to the dish.

In summary, IPA's bold hop character, higher alcohol content, and versatile flavour profile make it a fantastic choice for pairing with a variety of foods.

Where can I buy India Pale Ale (IPA) in Australia?

If you're looking to buy India Pale Ale (IPA) in Australia, you're in luck! Only Craft Beer offers a wide selection of IPAs from some of the best independent breweries across the country. Whether you're seeking classic English-style IPAs, hop-forward American IPAs, or innovative and experimental IPAs, Only Craft Beer has something for every IPA enthusiast. With the convenience of online shopping and direct delivery from the brewery to your doorstep, it's never been easier to enjoy the finest IPAs Australia has to offer.

What are some of the best India Pale Ales available at Only Craft Beer?

At Only Craft Beer, you'll find an extensive range of top-notch India Pale Ales from renowned Australian breweries. Some of the best options include: Six String Dark Red IPA, a dangerously flavourful holding it’s 6% ABV well with chocolate and caramel hop flavours; Aether West Coast IPA, a strong bodied beer that delivers moderate clarity and heavy, resinous aromas leading into the powerful flavours of citrus and pine; Yulli's Amanda Mandarin IPA, an American style IPA layered with a range of mandarin flavour; and Your Mates Sally, all about hop flavours! Big, bold, juicy and resinous. With such a diverse selection available, you're sure to find your new favourite IPA at Only Craft Beer.