West Coast Pale Ale (WCPA) is a style of pale ale that originated in California in the 1980s. It’s characterized by its high hop aroma and flavour, low malt sweetness, and high bitterness.
History
The first West Coast Pale Ale was brewed by Ken Grossman and Paul Camusi at the Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, California. The beer was originally called “The California Pale Ale,” but was later renamed to “West Coast Pale Ale” to reflect the style’s origins.
Characteristics
West Coast Pale Ales are typically made with pale malt and American hops. The hops used are typically high in alpha acids, which give the beer its bitterness. The beers also tend to have a high alcohol content, typically between 6% and 7%.
Flavour Profile
West Coast Pale Ales are usually bitter, with a strong hop aroma and flavour, malt characteristics are low and the beers often have a dry finish.
Popular Examples
- Russian River Brewing Company’s Pliny the Elder
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Company’s Pale Ale
- Firestone Walker Brewing Company’s Union Pale Ale
- Lagunitas Brewing Company’s IPA
- Deschutes Brewery’s Mirror Pond Pale Ale
How to Drink WCPA
West Coast Pale Ales are best served cold, in a pint glass. The beers can be enjoyed on their own, or paired with food. Some good food pairings from the Taproom & Kitchen menu include:
- Spicy food – Honey chilli & cheese garlic pizza bread
- Barbecue – Flat iron steak
- Pizza – Three Little Pigs
- Burgers – Breaded satay Tempeh burger
So…
WCPA is a delicious and refreshing style of beer that’s perfect for any occasion in our opinion. If you’re a fan of hoppy beers, then you should definitely try a West Coast Pale Ale and we’d suggest getting your hands on our Taiga 5.5% version as soon as it comes out. Sign up to our mailing list here to be the first to know when it drops.
