Are you a beer enthusiast looking to learn more about the difference between IPA and craft beer? If so, you've come to the right place. IPAs, or India Pale Ales, are a type of craft beer that have become increasingly popular in recent years. They are known for their intense hop flavor and higher alcohol content. On the other hand, craft beer is a broad term used to describe any beer that is made in a traditional or non-mechanized way.
In this article, we'll explore the differences between IPA and craft beer, as well as some of the most popular types of craft beer. IPAs are a type of craft beer that originated in England in the late 1700s. They were originally brewed with extra hops to help preserve them during long sea voyages to India. Today, IPAs are known for their intense hop flavor and higher alcohol content.
New England IPAs tend to be fruity and less bitter, while British IPAs are more malty and bitter. West Coast IPAs are somewhere in between, with a balance of fruity and bitter flavors. European ales such as pale ales and IPAs tend to have muted, floral and earthy hop flavors. American versions, on the other hand, often have notes of pine, fruit and citrus.
The taste and genetic makeup of the two beers differ slightly due to their history. IPAs also have a higher alcohol content than other types of craft beer. When it comes to craft beer, there are many different styles available. Some popular examples include Stone IPA by Stone Brewing, Grapefruit Sculpin by Ballast Point, and Bell's Two Hearted Ale. Many breweries recommend starting with a pale ale instead of an IPA if you're new to the craft beer scene.
The right glassware can also enhance your experience - tulip glasses help expand the aroma of beer and keep it cold, making them perfect for IPAs and bitter beers. The Brewers Association defines a craft brewery as one that produces 6 million barrels of beer or less annually and is independently owned. California is home to 841 craft breweries and produces 3.4 million barrels of beer each year. Craft beer festivals are also popular - they offer hundreds of different types of beers from dark beers to saisons. Session beers are another type of craft beer that are not limited to one style or flavor profile. They typically have lower alcohol content than other types of craft beer, making them perfect for drinking over an extended period of time.
Sour beers are also gaining popularity - they combine bittersweet flavors with fruits like cherry, raspberry or peach. Whether you're looking for something sweet or something bitter, there's sure to be a craft beer out there for you. California is home to many craft breweries, so supporting one is one of the best things you can do in the Golden State!.
