Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks Editor
LagerLagerLager • Pale3–8.5% ABVmedium bodylow-medium bitterness
Is this for me?
Choose this if…
- ✓You enjoy hoppy, bitter beers with citrus or resinous character.
Skip if…
- ✗You prefer malty, soft or low-bitterness beers.
What is India Pale Lager (IPL)?
A type of lager that is brewed with higher hop levels to create a unique taste and aroma similar to that of an India Pale Ale.
Best For
LagerLager • Pale
Food Pairings
Taste & Style
low-medium bitternessmedium bodyCitrusHoppyBitterCrispLager
Flavour profile
Food pairings
- Wings
- Pizza
- BBQ
- Burgers
- Fried Chicken
- Spicy Food
- Tacos
Best for
- Casual drinking & parties
- Best with Wings
- Best with Pizza
- Best with BBQ
- Citrus
Also known as
India Pale Lager (common_name)IPL (common_short_name)
Frequently asked questions
- What is India Pale Lager (IPL)?
- A type of lager that is brewed with higher hop levels to create a unique taste and aroma similar to that of an India Pale Ale.
- What does India Pale Lager (IPL) taste like?
- India Pale Lager (IPL) is often described as Citrus, Hoppy, Bitter, Crisp. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and brewery.
- What foods pair with India Pale Lager (IPL)?
- India Pale Lager (IPL) pairs well with Wings, Pizza, BBQ, Burgers. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
- How strong is India Pale Lager (IPL)?
- India Pale Lager (IPL) typically has an ABV of 3–8.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 90–320. Strength and calorie content vary by producer and batch.
- When should I enjoy India Pale Lager (IPL)?
- India Pale Lager (IPL) suits casual social occasions, food pairings and sessions where you want a flavourful but approachable beer. The style profile makes it versatile across a range of settings.
- What beers are similar to India Pale Lager (IPL)?
- If you enjoy India Pale Lager (IPL), explore other beer styles with a similar bitterness and body rating using the sensory bars as a guide. Styles with a matching profile score will feel closest in character.
- What are some popular examples of India Pale Lager (IPL)?
- Many breweries produce India Pale Lager (IPL) across different regions. Seek out local craft examples for fresh flavour, or look for well-reviewed commercial options widely available in bottle shops and pubs.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare beer styles at a glance.
- How do I use the sensory profile to find beers I like?
- If you like hoppy beers look for High Bitterness. For smooth, easy-drinking beers choose Soft Bitterness and Light Body. Use the Beginner-Friendly rating to find beers that match your experience level.
Style information is approximate and can vary by producer, region and recipe.