As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can say that there are noticeable differences between a Cold IPA and an IPL (India Pale Lager) in terms of their brewing process, flavor profile, and characteristics.
1. Brewing Process:
– Cold IPA: A Cold IPA is brewed using ale yeast and fermented at lower temperatures, similar to lager brewing techniques. This hybrid style combines the hop-forwardness of an IPA with the crispness and clean finish of a lager.
– IPL: On the other hand, an IPL is brewed using lager yeast and fermented at cooler temperatures, which is the traditional method for brewing lagers. This yeast imparts unique characteristics to the beer, resulting in a crisper and cleaner flavor profile compared to a Cold IPA.
2. Hoppy Characteristics:
– Cold IPA: Cold IPAs are known for their intense hop character, often showcasing a wide range of hop flavors and aromas. The hop bitterness is usually higher than in traditional IPAs, providing a bold and assertive taste. This style tends to have a robust hop presence, with floral, fruity, and resinous notes that can be quite prominent.
– IPL: While an IPL is also hopped, the hop character is typically more moderate compared to a Cold IPA. It may exhibit a balanced hop profile with a mix of herbal, citrusy, or fruity aromas, but the bitterness is usually more restrained. The focus in an IPL is on the malt and yeast flavors, with hops playing a supporting role rather than taking center stage.
3. ABV and Clarity:
– Cold IPA: Cold IPAs often have a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) compared to IPLs. They can range anywhere from 6% to 8% ABV or even higher, providing a stronger punch. Additionally, Cold IPAs are generally known for their clarity, with a clear and bright appearance that showcases the vibrant colors of the beer.
– IPL: IPLs typically have a lower ABV range, usually falling between 5% and 7% ABV. They are designed to be more sessionable and easy-drinking, making them suitable for longer periods of enjoyment. IPLs also tend to have excellent clarity, with a clean and transparent appearance that highlights the golden hues of the beer.
4. Flavor and Finish:
– Cold IPA: The flavor profile of a Cold IPA is characterized by a robust hop bitterness, with a strong hop-forward presence. The malt backbone may be more subdued, allowing the hops to shine through. The finish is often clean and crisp, leaving a pleasant lingering bitterness on the palate.
– IPL: IPLs are known for their balanced flavor profile, with a focus on the interplay between the malt and yeast characteristics. The malt sweetness is typically more pronounced, providing a slightly sweeter taste compared to a Cold IPA. The finish of an IPL is clean, crisp, and refreshing, with a smoother bitterness that doesn't linger as much as in a Cold IPA.
While both Cold IPAs and IPLs share some similarities, such as being hop-forward styles, there are notable differences in their brewing process, hop characteristics, ABV, and flavor profiles. Cold IPAs tend to be bolder, more assertively hopped, and higher in alcohol content, while IPLs offer a balanced and crisp flavor with a focus on the lager yeast characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two styles depends on personal preference and the desired drinking experience.