The rise of IPAs in the craft beer industry has been nothing short of phenomenal. From accounting for less than eight percent of craft beer sales in 2008 to a whopping 27.4 percent in 2015, the popularity of this bitter brew shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, experts predict that IPAs will make up one-third of the nation's total volume of craft beer by the end of 2017.
To gain a deeper understanding of this trend, I had the privilege of speaking with Mitch Steele, former head brewmaster at Stone Brewing and author of "IPA: Brewing Techniques, Recipes and the Evolution of India Pale Ale." With IPAs making up over 50 percent of Stone Brewing's sales, Steele is no stranger to the world of hop-forward beers.
When asked about his favorite hops to brew with, Steele highlighted Citra, Australian and New Zealand hops like Galaxy, and a new American variety called Idaho 7. He emphasized the importance of exploring new flavors and aromas that hops can bring to a beer, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of IPA brewing.
Steele believes that the growth of the craft beer industry and the evolving palates of beer drinkers have played a significant role in the popularity of IPAs. As more people develop a taste for hoppy beers, IPAs have become a go-to choice for many consumers.
One of the latest trends in IPA brewing that Steele mentioned is the use of fruit to enhance hop flavors. With new hop varieties offering notes of peach, pineapple, and grapefruit, adding fruit to IPAs has become a popular practice among brewers looking to create unique flavor profiles.
Another trend that Steele highlighted is the emergence of New England IPAs, known for their hazy, unfiltered appearance. While some brewers debate the merits of this style, it has gained traction among beer enthusiasts for its distinctive mouthfeel and intense hop character.
As the craft beer industry continues to innovate and push boundaries, IPAs remain at the forefront of the movement. With brewers like Mitch Steele leading the charge, the future of IPA brewing looks bright and full of exciting possibilities.