The UK craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with IPA firmly planted as a favourite. But the IPA story is complex, a tale of transatlantic influence and evolving tastes. While the UK birthed the style, its American cousin has significantly reshaped the modern IPA landscape on both sides of the Atlantic. So, what are the key IPA styles you’ll find in UK pubs and bottle shops today, and how have US trends influenced them?
A Brief History (and Geography) Lesson:
Originally brewed for export to India, the classic India Pale Ale was designed to withstand long sea voyages. British IPAs tended to be lower in alcohol and bitterness than their modern counterparts, with a focus on malt character and earthy hops. However, the American craft beer revolution in the late 20th century transformed the IPA. American brewers embraced bold, citrusy, and piney hops, pushing the boundaries of bitterness and aroma. This “American IPA” quickly gained popularity, and its influence spread globally, including back to its birthplace.
UK IPA Styles: A Modern Taxonomy:
Today, the UK IPA scene is a vibrant mix of styles, often blurring the lines between traditional and modern interpretations. Here are some key categories:
- Classic English IPA: A nod to the style’s origins, these IPAs showcase balance. Bitterness is present but restrained, allowing the malt profile (often biscuity or toasty) and traditional English hops (like East Kent Goldings or Fuggles) to shine. Alcohol content is generally moderate.
- American-Style IPA: The dominant force. These IPAs are hop-forward, often featuring American varieties like Citra, Simcoe, and Cascade. Expect pronounced bitterness, intense aromas of citrus, pine, and tropical fruit, and a drier finish. Alcohol content can range from moderate to high.
- New England IPA (NEIPA): This hazy, juicy style has taken the world by storm. NEIPAs are known for their soft mouthfeel, low bitterness, and intense fruit-forward hop character. The haze is a result of the use of oats and wheat in the grist, along with specific yeast strains and brewing techniques. While originating in the US, NEIPAs have found a devoted following in the UK.
- Double/Imperial IPA: These are amplified versions of American IPAs, boasting higher alcohol content and a massive hop presence. They are not for the faint of heart, but offer a truly intense and flavourful experience.
- Session IPA: Designed for drinkability, Session IPAs deliver the hoppy character of an American IPA but with a lower alcohol content, allowing for extended enjoyment.
- Black IPA: A less common but intriguing style, Black IPAs combine the hoppy character of an American IPA with the roasted malt flavours of a stout or porter.
The American Influence: A Two-Way Street:
The impact of US beer trends on the UK is undeniable. The rise of American hops, the emphasis on hop-forward flavours, and the emergence of styles like NEIPA have all significantly shaped the UK IPA landscape. However, the influence is not entirely one-way. UK brewers are also pushing boundaries, experimenting with new hop varieties and brewing techniques, and creating unique interpretations of classic styles. Furthermore, the growing popularity of lower-alcohol and more sessionable beers in the UK has influenced the development of similar styles in the US.
The Future of IPA in the UK:
The IPA story is still being written. As beer drinkers become more adventurous and brewers continue to innovate, we can expect to see further evolution in IPA styles. The interplay between UK tradition and American innovation will likely continue to drive this evolution, resulting in a diverse and exciting IPA landscape. One thing is certain: the love for hops shows no signs of waning, and IPA will remain a cornerstone of the UK craft beer scene for years to come.
