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Beer Styles

IPA (India Pale Ale)

Beer style guide

Reviewed by , Drinks Editor
IPAAleAle • IPA3–8.5% ABVmedium bodymedium-high 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 IPA (India Pale Ale)?

An intensely hopped ale defined by assertive bitterness and vivid hop aroma — typically citrus, tropical fruit, or pine depending on the hop varieties used. India Pale Ales balance high bitterness with medium body and enough malt backbone to prevent harsh dryness.

Best For

Hop loversIPA fansAleAle • IPA

Food Pairings

WingsPizzaBBQBurgersFried ChickenSpicy FoodTacos

Taste & Style

medium-high bitternessmedium bodyCitrusHoppyPineyBitterIPA

Flavour profile

Citrus(medium)Hoppy(high)Piney(low)Bitter(high)

Food pairings

Best for

Also known as

India Pale Ale (common_name)IPA (common_short_name)

Frequently asked questions

What is IPA (India Pale Ale)?
An intensely hopped ale defined by assertive bitterness and vivid hop aroma — typically citrus, tropical fruit, or pine depending on the hop varieties used. India Pale Ales balance high bitterness with medium body and en
What does IPA (India Pale Ale) taste like?
IPA (India Pale Ale) is often described as Citrus, Hoppy, Piney, Bitter. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and brewery.
What foods pair with IPA (India Pale Ale)?
IPA (India Pale Ale) pairs well with Wings, Pizza, BBQ, Burgers. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
How strong is IPA (India Pale Ale)?
IPA (India Pale Ale) 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 IPA (India Pale Ale)?
IPA (India Pale Ale) 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 IPA (India Pale Ale)?
If you enjoy IPA (India Pale Ale), 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 IPA (India Pale Ale)?
Many breweries produce IPA (India Pale Ale) 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.