As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Session IPAs are indeed bitter. In fact, bitterness is one of the defining characteristics of this style of beer. When you take a sip of a Session IPA, you can expect to be hit with a bold, hop-forward bitterness that lingers on your palate.
The bitterness in a Session IPA comes from the hops used during the brewing process. Hops are flowers that contain alpha acids, which contribute to the bitterness in beer. Brewers carefully select hops with higher alpha acid content to achieve the desired level of bitterness in their beers.
What sets Session IPAs apart from other IPA styles is their lower alcohol content. The term “session” refers to the idea that these beers are meant to be enjoyed in larger quantities over an extended period of time, without the high alcohol content becoming overwhelming. This lower alcohol content allows the hop bitterness to take center stage without being overshadowed by the potent alcoholic punch of a regular IPA.
Personally, I find the bitterness of a Session IPA to be refreshing and invigorating. It wakes up my taste buds and leaves a lingering, pleasant bitterness that keeps me coming back for more. However, it's important to note that bitterness is a subjective experience, and what one person finds enjoyable, another may find off-putting.
If you're new to the world of IPAs or have a preference for milder, less hop-forward beers, the bitterness of a Session IPA may take some getting used to. It can be an acquired taste for some, but for hop enthusiasts like myself, it's a delightful experience.
In terms of food pairings, the bitterness of a Session IPA can complement a wide range of dishes. The hop bitterness acts as a palate cleanser, cutting through rich or fatty foods and providing a refreshing contrast. I personally enjoy pairing Session IPAs with spicy foods, as the bitterness helps to balance and enhance the flavors.
The bitterness of a Session IPA is a defining characteristic of the style. It sets these beers apart from other IPAs and contributes to their hop-forward, somewhat dry profile. Whether you enjoy the bitterness or not is a matter of personal preference, but if you're a fan of bold, hoppy flavors, I highly recommend giving a Session IPA a try.