Where are IPAs the most popular? As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore the world of beer and witness the varying preferences of beer drinkers across different regions. When it comes to IPAs, there are certain areas that stand out as hotbeds for this particular beer style.
1. West Coast: The West Coast of the United States, especially California, is widely regarded as the birthplace of the modern IPA. Craft breweries such as Sierra Nevada and Stone Brewing Co. paved the way for the hop-forward movement in the 1990s. The West Coast IPA style, known for its intense hop bitterness, citrusy and piney flavors, and high alcohol content, quickly gained popularity in this region. The love for IPAs became deeply ingrained in the beer culture, with countless breweries across California producing their own unique takes on the style.
2. Pacific Northwest: Moving up north, the Pacific Northwest region, encompassing states like Oregon and Washington, also boasts a thriving IPA scene. The lush, hop-friendly climate of the region, with its abundant hop farms, provides brewers with access to top-quality hops, resulting in some exceptional IPAs. Breweries like Deschutes, Rogue, and Elysian Brewing have gained recognition for their hop-forward beers, attracting a dedicated following of IPA enthusiasts in the area.
3. New England: On the opposite coast, New England has emerged as another IPA stronghold in recent years. The New England IPA, or NEIPA, is characterized by its hazy appearance, juicy flavors, and low bitterness. This style has gained immense popularity, not only in New England but also across the country and even internationally. Breweries like Trillium and Tree House Brewing Company have gained cult-like followings for their hazy IPAs, drawing beer lovers from far and wide to get a taste of their creations.
4. Craft Beer Hubs: While the West Coast and New England may be the most prominent regions for IPAs, it's worth mentioning that craft beer hubs across the country, such as Colorado, Michigan, and North Carolina, also have a strong IPA culture. These areas have witnessed a surge in craft breweries and beer enthusiasts who appreciate the bold flavors and aromas that IPAs offer.
5. International Influence: The popularity of IPAs is not limited to the United States. In recent years, IPAs have gained traction globally, with breweries in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and England producing exceptional examples of the style. In fact, some argue that the British-style IPA predates its American counterpart, with breweries like BrewDog leading the charge in the UK's craft beer revolution.
Personal experience: As a beer enthusiast and someone who has had the opportunity to travel and taste beers from different regions, I can attest to the passion and dedication that IPA drinkers have in these areas. Whether it's sipping a West Coast IPA while basking in the California sun, enjoying a hazy NEIPA in the vibrant beer scene of New England, or exploring the craft beer culture of Colorado and Michigan, the love for IPAs is palpable.
IPAs have found their strongholds in the West Coast, Pacific Northwest, and New England regions of the United States. These areas have fostered a vibrant beer culture that celebrates the hop-forward nature of IPAs and continually pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved with this beloved beer style. However, it's important to note that IPAs have also gained popularity internationally, with breweries around the world embracing and putting their own spin on this iconic beer style. So, whether you're on the hunt for a West Coast hop bomb or a hazy New England delight, there's a place for every IPA lover to indulge in their hoppy desires.