Celebrating National IPA Day: A Hop-Lover’s Guide to Unique Varieties
Today marks a special occasion in the beer calendar – National IPA Day. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating one of the most beloved and diverse styles of beer: the India Pale Ale (IPA). With its rich history, ranging from the storied tales of British colonialism to its resurgence and evolution within the craft beer movement, the IPA holds a cherished spot in the hearts of many. But what truly sets an IPA apart? The answer lies in one key ingredient – hops.
Hops are the soul of an IPA, imparting not just bitterness but a symphony of flavors and aromas that can transport you to a pine forest, a tropical island, or a field of citrus and flowers. In honor of National IPA Day, let’s dive into some unique hop varieties that have shaped the IPA’s we know and love today.
1. Cascade Hops
Starting with the hop that arguably kickstarted the American craft beer revolution, Cascade is the quintessential American hop. With its vibrant grapefruit and floral notes, Cascade became the backbone of the American Pale Ale and IPA, offering a departure from the earthier, more herbal qualities of traditional English hops.
2. Citra Hops
As the name suggests, Citra bursts with citrusy flavors, specifically notes of lime, grapefruit, and tropical fruits. It’s a powerhouse hop that, when used in IPAs, creates a juicy, almost addictively fruity beer. Citra has become a favorite among craft brewers, especially in the crafting of New England IPAs, known for their hazy appearance and smooth, juicy profile.
3. Galaxy Hops
Hailing from Australia, Galaxy hops are like the Southern Hemisphere’s answer to Citra. These hops are all about bold, juicy tropical fruit flavors—think mango, peach, and passionfruit. Galaxy hops have a way of transporting your senses, making them a sought-after variety for adding a splash of “down under” to IPAs.
4. Mosaic Hops
Mosaic hops are like the complex, multifaceted cousin in the hop family. They present a mosaic of flavors and aromas, blending fruity and earthy notes with hints of blueberry, tangerine, and rose. Their versatility and complexity make them a favorite for adding depth to IPAs without overwhelming the senses.
5. Simcoe Hops
Simcoe is another hop that has become synonymous with the American IPA movement. Known for its versatility, it offers a unique blend of piney, earthy, and fruity notes, with a distinct character that can swing towards passionfruit or pine depending on how it’s used. It’s a hop that can stand alone or blend beautifully with others, adding complexity to any IPA it graces.
As we celebrate National IPA Day, let’s raise our glasses to the magical world of hops. Each variety brings its own unique character and flair to our beloved IPAs, showcasing the incredible diversity and creativity within the craft beer community. Whether you’re a fan of the bold and juicy or the subtle and piney, there’s an IPA out there for you.
Brewing your own IPA? We have options. Explore these popular tanks and accessories:
