What is a double white IPA?

Answered by Roy Gibson

As an expert sommelier and brewer, let me share with you the fascinating world of a double white . This unique is a true hybrid, combining the refreshing qualities of a White with the boldness and strength of a Double IPA. The result is a harmonious collision of flavors that is sure to leave your taste buds in awe.

Firstly, let's delve into the characteristics of a White Ale. Typically brewed with a significant portion of wheat, White Ales possess a pale, hazy appearance reminiscent of a cloudy day. This wheat addition provides a smooth and creamy mouthfeel that enhances the overall drinking experience. Additionally, the use of Belgian strains in White Ales imparts subtle fruity and spicy notes, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Now, let's turn our attention to the Double IPA aspect of this remarkable beer. Double IPAs, also known as Imperial IPAs, are revered for their amplified hop presence and higher content. These beers are an ode to the hop lovers, showcasing bold flavors and aromas of citrus, pine, and tropical fruits. The intense bitterness is balanced by a sturdy backbone, creating a harmonious interplay between and malt.

So, what happens when you combine the best of both worlds? Duckzilla, a double white IPA, emerges. This kaiju-level beer is brewed with a generous amount of wheat, resulting in a pale white color that is strikingly different from your typical IPA. The use of wheat also imparts a subtle sweetness in the finish, providing a delightful contrast to the hop bitterness.

One of the defining characteristics of a double white IPA is its ability to showcase the best qualities of both styles without overpowering one another. The wheat smoothens the hop bitterness, creating a more approachable and balanced drinking experience. The fruity and spicy esters from the Belgian yeast add a layer of complexity, elevating the beer to a whole new level.

In terms of aroma, expect a burst of citrus, tropical fruits, and floral notes from the generous hop additions. The aroma is further enhanced by the Belgian yeast, which adds a touch of spiciness and a subtle hint of clove or banana. These aromatics invite you to take a sip and explore the intricate flavors that await.

Upon tasting a double white IPA, you'll notice the upfront hop bitterness that boldly asserts its presence. The flavors of grapefruit, orange peel, and pine dance on your palate, leaving a trail of hop-induced bliss. However, the wheat's contribution cannot be overlooked, as it provides a smooth and creamy mouthfeel that enhances drinkability and balances the hop intensity. The finish is clean and refreshing, with a lingering hop bitterness that leaves you longing for another sip.

To truly appreciate the complexities of a double white IPA, I encourage you to savor it slowly and let the flavors unfold on your tongue. Pay attention to the interplay of hop bitterness, wheat sweetness, and the subtle nuances contributed by the Belgian yeast. Each sip offers a new discovery, and the experience is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

A double white IPA is a magical fusion of a White Ale and a Double IPA. It combines the refreshing qualities of a wheat-based White Ale with the bold hop presence and higher alcohol content of a Double IPA. Duckzilla, with its pale white appearance, subtle sweetness, and harmonious flavor profile, truly exemplifies the best of both worlds. So, grab a bottle, pour it into a glass, and let the double white IPA experience transport you to a realm of unparalleled deliciousness.