Is a Cold IPA an IPL?
The short answer is no, a Cold IPA is not an IPL. While they may share some similarities, they are distinct beer styles with their own unique characteristics. Let's dive deeper into each style to understand the differences.
1. Cold IPA:
Cold IPA is a relatively new beer style that emerged in the craft beer scene. It is essentially an India Pale Ale (IPA) that has been brewed using lager yeast and fermented at lower temperatures, similar to a lager. This cold fermentation process helps to create a cleaner, crisper flavor profile with a smooth finish.
Key characteristics of a Cold IPA include:
– Clarity: Cold IPAs are known for their crystal-clear appearance. The cold fermentation process allows for better settling of sediments, resulting in a visually appealing beer.
– Extra Hoppiness: Just like traditional IPAs, Cold IPAs are hopped aggressively, often with a focus on aromatic hop varieties. This leads to bold hop flavors and aromas, ranging from citrus and tropical fruits to pine and resin.
– Increased ABV: Cold IPAs tend to have a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) compared to traditional IPAs. This elevated ABV contributes to a bolder, more robust flavor profile.
2. India Pale Lager (IPL):
India Pale Lager, on the other hand, is a hybrid beer style that combines the characteristics of both an IPA and a lager. It is essentially a lager that has been brewed with a significant amount of hops, similar to an IPA. IPLs offer a unique balance between the clean, crisp nature of a lager and the hop-forward characteristics of an IPA.
Key characteristics of an IPL include:
– Clean Flavor: IPLs are known for their clean, smooth flavor profile, thanks to the use of lager yeast. The fermentation at lower temperatures reduces fruity esters and results in a more subdued yeast character, allowing the hops to shine.
– Hop-forward: IPLs have a pronounced hop presence, usually with a focus on hop bitterness and flavor. However, the hop intensity is often more restrained compared to traditional IPAs, allowing for a better balance with the malt backbone.
– Lager-like qualities: IPLs exhibit the refreshing qualities associated with lagers, such as a crisp mouthfeel, low levels of residual sweetness, and a light to medium body.
While both Cold IPAs and IPLs share some commonalities, such as the use of lager yeast and a focus on hop-forward flavors, they differ in terms of brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and overall hoppiness. Cold IPAs are known for their clarity, extra hoppiness, and higher ABV, while IPLs offer a clean, balanced flavor with a lager-like character.
It's worth noting that beer styles can evolve and change over time as brewers experiment and push boundaries. So, while we can define these styles based on their current characteristics, there may be variations and new interpretations in the future.
A Cold IPA is not an IPL, but they are both interesting beer styles that offer unique experiences for beer enthusiasts. Exploring and appreciating the nuances of each style can be a delightful journey for any craft beer lover. Cheers!