India Pale Ale

What is IPA?

IPA stands for India Pale Ale. It is a beer style in which hops play a major role in the aroma, flavor, and bitterness. Depending on the hop varieties and the recipe, you may encounter notes of citrus, tropical fruit, flowers, or pine, for example. The malt forms the base, giving the beer body and balance.

For many enthusiasts, IPA is where their journey through the world of craft beer begins. Even if you are already well-acquainted with the style, there is always plenty left to discover. Brewers experiment with hop varieties, combinations, and brewing techniques, giving every IPA its own unique character.

Is IPA always bitter?

IPA is known for hop bitterness, but not every IPA tastes distinctly bitter. Some variants are dry and bitter, while others come across as soft and juicy. The mouthfeel, malt base, and alcohol percentage also influence how you experience the beer.

Have you ever tasted an IPA that wasn't to your liking? Then another variant might still surprise you. It helps to know whether you enjoy fresh, dry beers, for example, or prefer to drink something soft and fruity.

What types of IPA are there?

Within the IPA family, you will find various sub-styles. NEIPA and Hazy IPA are often known for their cloudy appearance and soft, juicy character. West Coast IPA is generally drier, with a more pronounced bitterness. Session IPA offers hop character at a lower alcohol percentage, while Double IPA (DIPA)and Triple IPA (TIPA)showcase the more powerful side of the family.

In addition, there are variants such as Cold IPA, Black IPA, and Belgian IPA, each with its own approach to the style. Would you like to search more specifically? Take a look at the corresponding sub-collections and discover which direction appeals to you.

Discovering IPA at De Biersalon

IPA is one of our specialties. At De Biersalon, you will find a wide, rotating selection from breweries in the Netherlands, the rest of Europe, and beyond. With regular new releases, there is room for trusted favorites as well as beers you have never tasted before.

Do you want to buy IPA but don't know where to start? Tell us which beers you enjoy and what you would like to discover. We will help you choose personally, in the store or via a message. From your first IPA to a new find from your favorite brewery.

Discover our Top-Rated IPAs

Curious about which IPAs are highly rated by other beer lovers? In our overview of Top-Rated IPAs, you will find all the IPAs in our range with an Untappd score above 4.00. A great place to find inspiration and discover your next favorite.