New England IPA is a style of India Pale Ale that is most famously associated with New England brewers, particularly those located in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Maine. This style is also sometimes referred to as Hazy IPA, Northeast IPA, Juicy IPA, or a Vermont IPA.
It is generally characterized by a full, round body, low bitterness, and juicy, hop-forward aroma and flavor characteristics. New England IPAs are also notable for their heftier alcohol content compared to regular IPAs.
These hoppy beer styles generally owe their popularity to an intense combination of hop oils and dry-hopping techniques that create an almost tropical-like, citrusy, juicy aroma and flavor. Dry-hopping, which is when dry hops are added to the beer post-fermentation, accounts for much of the juicy citrusy flavors that are synonymous with New England IPAs, and combined with the other hop oils, results in dense clouds of sweetness and low bitterness.
These beers also feature a unique hazy, opaque appearance that has become standard for New England IPAs. Developed to stand out from traditional IPAs, this distinctive look carries with it a burst of flavor that is unlike any other.
This appearance is derived from the relatively high levels of wheat, oats and yeast proteins which act as both body-building agents and a source of additional proteins, lipids and esters.
The popularity of this style has been fueled by the craft beer scene in Vermont and Massachusetts, with local brewers quickly embracing a beer that satisfied the palates of locals and soon caught the attention of drinkers across the US.
With its juicy hop flavors and hazy appearance, New England IPA has become one of the most popular IPA styles today, thriving primarily in the northeast but also available throughout the US.
How are New England IPAs different?
New England IPAs, also known as NEIPAs, are a relatively new style of IPA hailing from the American Northeast. They differ from traditional IPAs in a few key ways. Generally, NEIPAs are characterized by an incredibly hazy appearance, a soft and creamy mouthfeel, and heavy notes of hop fruitiness, like pineapple, mango, and citrus.
They also have lower bitterness than traditional IPAs, allowing the hop character to come through without being overly provocative. Along with this, NEIPAs tend to be higher in alcohol than your average IPA.
NEIPAs are brewed with a special technique called hop-bursting, which is done right at the end of the boil. This results in an intense hop aroma, while reducing bitterness and giving a smooth, juicy character.
As well, these beers are brewed with higher levels of wheat and oats, which contributes to their signature hazy appearance.
For many years, the style of IPA that has been most widely popular was the West Coast IPA. But over the past few years, a growing number of Northeast brewers have made NEIPAs the frontrunner. This bold and unique expression of American hops has captured the taste buds of craft beer fans all over the world, making the style a true phenomenon in the beer community.
Is New England IPA the same as Hazy IPA?
No, New England IPA and Hazy IPA are not the same. While they are both types of IPAs, they have distinct flavor and aroma characteristics which set them apart. New England IPAs are typically brewed with a malt bill that consists of a mix of malted barley and wheat while Hazy IPAs favor a malt bill that includes oats.
In addition to the malt bill, New England IPAs also contain more fruity and floral hops compared to Hazy IPAs. This gives the New England IPA a more complex flavor and aroma profile that often includes tropical fruits, citrus zest, and floral or herbal notes.
Hazy IPAs, on the other hand, are brewed with higher doses of hops which results in less complex flavor notes. These IPAs typically have more notes of citrus, pineapple, peach, and tropical fruit. Both IPAs are usually unfiltered and cloudy in appearance, although New England IPAs tend to be less hazy than Hazy IPAs.
What is the difference between New England IPA and West Coast IPA?
The differences between New England IPA (NEIPA) and West Coast IPA (WCPI) stem from the brewing process, flavor, ingredients, and alcohol content.
NEIPA is a hazy, juicy, and hop-forward style of IPA, often incorporating fruit-forward hop varieties. This style of IPA is intentionally less bitter and more aromatic, showcasing complex fruity and citrusy hop flavors.
NEIPA typically has a lower ABV than WCPI, making it a great beer for day-drinking.
WCPI, on the other hand, is typically characterized by intense bitterness, a distinct, piney aroma, and a strong malt backbone. WCPI also typically has a higher ABV than NEIPA due to the addition of a greater amount of malts.
This style of IPA is also typically clearer in appearance than its Northeast counterpart, often showcasing a bright golden color.
When it comes down to it, NEIPA and WCPI are two distinct styles of IPA with unique brewing processes, flavors, and ingredients. However, both styles of IPA can be equally delicious and refreshing, depending on the preferences of the beer drinker.
Why are hazy IPAs so popular?
Hazy IPAs have become very popular in recent years due to their unique flavor profile and visually appealing appearance. They are flavorful and have a strong hop presence without being overly astringent or overwhelming.
This allows drinkers to enjoy the bold and complex layers of hop aroma and flavor without the bitterness that can be associated with more traditional IPAs. Additionally, due to the dry-hopping process used to create Hazy IPAs, the beer has a hazy and smooth mouthfeel that leads to a more enjoyable drinking experience.
It also contains more suspended hop particles which adds depth and complexity to the flavor. Furthermore, the hazy nature of Hazy IPAs can also be a visual indicator of the beer’s freshness, appealing to beer drinkers who often appreciate beers that are made recently with the freshest ingredients.
It is these sensory and enjoyable experiences that have quickly made Hazy IPAs very popular amongst craft beer drinkers.
What makes New England IPA hazy?
The hazy appearance of New England IPA, also referred to as NE IPA or hazy IPA, is due to suspended particulate matter, mostly un-fermentable proteins and yeast suspended in the liquid. These particles give the beer a cloudy and opaque appearance, as well as a full, creamy mouthfeel.
In order for these proteins and yeast to remain suspended in the liquid, the wort and/or beer must be low in dissolved oxygen. This can be accomplished by using filtered or highly carbonated CO2, as well as cold conditioning or cold side fermentation.
Additionally, the hop bill and fermentation profile of NE IPA’s use certain hop varieties, such as Mosaic and Citra, that are thought to hasten the haze formation due to their polyphenol and pectin contents.
The use of flaked or mashed oats and wheat can help to thicken the proteins and proteins and provide a fuller, smoother body. Finally, fining agents such as gelatin, polyclar, and isinglass can also be used, as these can help remove some of the particulate matter and impart a clearer beer.
All of these processes combined contributes to the signature haziness of New England IPA’s.
What makes an IPA a West Coast IPA?
West Coast IPAs got their start in the 1990s in the San Francisco Bay Area, and their defining qualities can be attributed to the specific hops and brewing techniques used in that region. West Coast IPAs typically have a heavier hop character and a higher alcohol content than other IPAs.
Simcoe, Amarillo, Cascade, Centennial and Citra hops are often seen as the most popular varieties for West Coast IPAs, and brewers use dry hopping, late hopping and a high hopping rate to highlight the flavor profile.
As for flavor, West Coast IPAs are typically very bitter and characterized by strong pine and citrus notes. In addition to their bold hop character, West Coast IPAs have a more balanced malt profile than traditional IPAs, contributing a slight sweetness and full body.
With their outrageous hop aromas and unforgettable bitter taste, West Coast IPAs are beloved all around the world, with some of the most popular being Stone IPA, Victory HopDevil, and Alpine Duet.
Why do they call it West Coast IPA?
The name ‘West Coast IPA’ is often used to distinguish American-style IPA from other sub-styles of IPA. This style of IPA is usually characterized by a strong hop aroma and flavor, as well as a light, dry, and slightly bitter finish.
West Coast IPAs can typically range from 6-7% Alcohol by volume (ABV) and have an International Bitterness Units (IBU) range of 50-70, although some IPAs have been brewed with higher IBUs and ABV. The origins of this style were first found on the west coast of America, with brewers in California and Oregon ahead of the curve when it came to producing IPAs.
They used native West Coast hops such as Cascade, Centennial, and Simcoe to add notes of citrus, pine, and sometimes tropical fruit, to the beer. The abundance of these hop varieties, spread out over numerous different regions, has allowed brewers to experiment and develop their own unique recipes.
West Coast IPAs have become a staple of craft beer, and they continue to gain popularity, both in the US and internationally.
Is Hazy IPA West or East Coast?
Some people might consider Hazy IPA to be a West Coast style IPA due to its hazy appearance and citrusy hop profile, while others might classify it as an East Coast style IPA because of its juiciness and full body.
Ultimately, it is up to the drinker to decide which coast they think Hazy IPA belongs to.
What does IPA mean in beer?
IPA stands for India Pale Ale and is a type of beer that has become popular in recent years. It is an amber-colored ale that is characterized by its bitterness and its hoppy aroma. The origin of IPA dates back to the 1800s in England, where brewers would add extra hops to beer being sent to India to help preserve the beer during its long journey.
Today, IPA beers are brewed with an abundance of hops, creating a more intense flavor and aroma than other types of beer. The flavor of an IPA can range from light and floral, to grapefruit and piney, to intense bitterness.
In addition to their intense flavor, IPAs are also known for their higher alcohol content.
Where do hazy IPAs come from?
Hazy IPAs originated in the United States craft beer scene, specifically the Northeast region. It was first popularized by craft brewers in Vermont in the early 2010s, though they weren’t overtly labeled as such at the time.
As such, they have become known as “New England IPAs”. Hazy IPAs are related to the traditional American-style IPA, but typically feature less hop bitterness (due in part to dry-hopping techniques) but with similar hop intensity, increased fruit and citrus flavor, and a fuller body due to higher levels of malt and wheat.
The hazy appearance of this style comes from the high levels of protein and yeast in the beer, which increase its opacity. As the style has become increasingly popular, many brewers have begun experimenting with a variety of hop varieties and adjuncts (such as oats or rye) in order to produce unique flavors and aromas.
Is New England IPA bitter?
New England IPA, also commonly referred to as “NEIPA”, is a hoppy and aromatic style of IPA that is typically low in bitterness. This style of beer is often noted for its full body, great haze, juicy or fruity aroma, and smooth round mouthfeel.
Although NEIPA typically has a low bitterness rating compared to other IPAs, the perception of bitterness can vary based on the type of hops used and how late they are added to the beer during the brewing process.
As a result, some NEIPAs may be slightly more bitter than expected, while others may have a substantially lower bitterness level. It is also important to note that in spite of the low bitterness levels, NEIPAs are often full of flavor and aroma and can still deliver a unique hop experience.
How would you describe New England IPA?
New England IPA, also known as hazy IPA, is an American IPA style characterized by intense hop flavor, a juicy mouthfeel and a cloudy appearance. It typically has relatively low bitterness compared to a traditional West Coast IPA, and is brewed with varieties of hops often referred to as ‘juicy’/’fruity’, such as Citra and Mosaic.
The combination of hops and yeast creates a unique flavor profile with notes of tropical fruit, orange, and citrus. The light malt character and high level of haze are also hallmarks of this style. It is usually served unfiltered, creating a smooth and creamy feel in the mouth.
All in all, New England IPA brings together traditional IPA characteristics with a modern twist, creating a unique and truly delicious beer.
