In recent years, the craft beer scene has witnessed a surge in popularity of hazy IPAs. These hazy, juicy, and aromatic beers have captivated beer enthusiasts with their tropical fruit flavors and velvety mouthfeel. But there's a new player in town that's taking the hazy IPA trend to a whole new level – the Oat Cream IPA.
Oat Cream IPAs, as the name suggests, are brewed with a generous amount of oats, which contribute to their signature creamy and smooth texture. This addition of oats not only enhances the mouthfeel but also adds depth and complexity to the beer's overall flavor profile.
Traditionally, IPAs are brewed with a grain bill consisting primarily of base malt, usually making up around 60% of the total grain bill. However, in the case of Oat Cream IPAs, the grain bill takes a different approach. Oats become the star of the show, making up around 35% of the grain bill, while the remaining 5% is a combination of wheat malt, crystal malt, and lactose.
Lactose, also known as milk sugar, is a key ingredient in Oat Cream IPAs. It not only adds a touch of sweetness but also further contributes to the beer's creamy mouthfeel. Typically, about 2% lactose is added to achieve the desired effect.
The addition of lactose and oats creates a unique flavor profile that sets Oat Cream IPAs apart from their hazy IPA counterparts. The creamy texture combined with the tropical fruit flavors of the hops makes for a truly indulgent drinking experience.
But that's not all – Oat Cream IPAs can also be brewed with a variety of adjuncts to further enhance their flavor profile. Some popular adjuncts include vanilla, tropical fruits like passion fruit, mango, and guava, as well as chocolate, peanut butter, and even coffee. These additions offer a whole new dimension of flavors and aromas, making each Oat Cream IPA a delightful surprise for the taste buds.
If you're a fan of rich and velvety beers, Oat Cream IPAs are definitely worth a try. Their creamy mouthfeel, combined with the tropical fruit flavors and innovative adjuncts, create a truly unique drinking experience that will leave you craving for more.
Now, you might be wondering where to find these delectable brews. Well, fortunately, Oat Cream IPAs are gaining popularity among craft breweries across the country. Look out for offerings from renowned breweries like Founders, Firestone Walker, and Mikkeller, who have already made their mark in the Oat Cream IPA scene.
In conclusion (or rather, leaving it up to you to decide), Oat Cream IPAs offer a delightful twist to the hazy IPA trend. With their creamy mouthfeel, unique flavor profiles, and innovative adjuncts, these beers are a must-try for any craft beer enthusiast. So, go ahead and indulge in the creamy goodness of an Oat Cream IPA – your taste buds will thank you!
What Makes IPA Creamy?
IPAs can have a creamy texture due to the addition of certain ingredients and brewing techniques. Here are the key factors that contribute to the creaminess of an IPA:
1. Wheat: Wheat is commonly added to IPAs to enhance their mouthfeel. It contributes to a smooth and creamy texture by providing proteins that create a fuller body.
2. Oats: Oats, particularly flaked oats, are another ingredient used to add creaminess to IPAs. They contain beta-glucans, which contribute to a soft and velvety mouthfeel.
3. Lactose: Lactose, also known as milk sugar, is sometimes used in IPAs to increase their creaminess. Lactose is not fermentable by yeast, so it adds sweetness and body to the beer without increasing the alcohol content.
4. Haze: Hazy IPAs, also known as New England IPAs or NEIPAs, often have a creamy appearance due to the suspended particles of hop oils and proteins. The haze contributes to a smoother and fuller mouthfeel.
5. Brewing Techniques: Certain brewing techniques can also contribute to the creaminess of IPAs. For example, the use of lower carbonation levels can create a softer and more velvety texture. Additionally, the selection and combination of hops can influence the perceived creaminess.
The creaminess of IPAs can be achieved through the addition of ingredients like wheat, oats, and lactose, as well as the brewing techniques employed. These factors work together to create a creamy and smooth mouthfeel in hazy IPAs.
Conclusion
Oat cream IPAs have emerged as a popular and exciting addition to the craft beer scene. These beers feature a unique combination of ingredients, including oats, lactose, and various adjuncts, resulting in a creamy and soft mouthfeel that sets them apart from traditional IPAs. The use of oats and lactose creates a velvety texture that enhances the overall drinking experience.
Oat cream IPAs often incorporate adjuncts such as vanilla, tropical fruits, chocolate, peanut butter, or coffee, adding layers of complexity and flavor to the beer. The inclusion of fruits like passion fruit, mango, guava, peaches, and raspberries further enhances the aroma and taste profile, making these beers a delightful treat for the senses.
The grainbill for oat cream IPAs typically consists of 60% base malt, 35% oats, and the remaining 5% being a combination of wheat malt, crystal malt, and lactose. This carefully crafted grainbill results in a balanced beer with a smooth and luscious mouthfeel. The addition of lactose, typically around 2%, adds a touch of sweetness that complements the hop bitterness and brings out the flavors of the adjuncts.
Oat cream IPAs offer a unique and enjoyable drinking experience for beer enthusiasts. With their creamy texture, complex flavors, and enticing aromas, these beers have gained a devoted following. Whether you're a fan of traditional IPAs or looking to explore new and innovative beer styles, oat cream IPAs are definitely worth a try. So go ahead, indulge in the velvety goodness of an oat cream IPA and experience the delightful combination of hops, oats, lactose, and adjuncts in every sip. Cheers!
