The opposite of a Hazy IPA is a beer style known as Brut IPA. While Hazy IPAs are known for their juicy and hazy appearance, with a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, Brut IPAs are the complete opposite. They are characterized by their effervescent carbonation and bone-dry finish, similar to the “brut” wines produced by winemakers.
Brut IPAs are a relatively new style that gained popularity in the craft beer scene in recent years. They were first brewed in San Francisco in 2017 and quickly spread to other parts of the United States and beyond. The name “brut” comes from the term used in the wine industry to describe a dry champagne or sparkling wine.
One of the defining characteristics of a Brut IPA is its dryness. Unlike Hazy IPAs, which often have residual sweetness from the use of specialty malts or high protein grains like oats, Brut IPAs are fermented to complete dryness. This means that all the sugars in the beer are converted into alcohol, leaving no residual sweetness behind. As a result, Brut IPAs have a crisp and clean flavor profile, without any lingering sweetness on the palate.
Another key difference between Hazy IPAs and Brut IPAs is the hop character. While Hazy IPAs are heavily hopped, resulting in intense fruity and tropical flavors, Brut IPAs are also hop-driven but with a focus on hop aroma and dryness rather than bitterness. The hops used in Brut IPAs are typically aromatic varieties that impart floral, citrus, or herbal notes to the beer. This creates a refreshing and vibrant hop profile without the intense bitterness commonly associated with West Coast-style hop bombs.
In terms of appearance, Brut IPAs have a clear and bright appearance, in contrast to the hazy and turbid nature of Hazy IPAs. The clarity is achieved through the use of fining agents or extended cold conditioning, which helps to drop out any remaining haze-causing particles in the beer.
The mouthfeel of a Brut IPA is another distinguishing factor. While Hazy IPAs have a soft and creamy mouthfeel, Brut IPAs are highly carbonated and effervescent, giving them a light and sparkling sensation on the palate. This makes them incredibly refreshing and easy to drink, especially in warmer weather or as a palate cleanser between courses during a meal.
The polar opposite of a Hazy IPA is a Brut IPA. While Hazy IPAs are known for their hazy appearance, juicy flavor, and creamy mouthfeel, Brut IPAs are characterized by their clear appearance, dry finish, effervescent carbonation, and hop-driven aroma without the bitterness. They offer a refreshing and crisp alternative to the hazy and juicy IPAs that have become so popular in recent years.