A milkshake style beer, also known as a milkshake IPA, is a unique and flavorful variation of the popular hazy IPA style. This style of beer is characterized by its use of lactose, or milk sugar, which adds a creamy sweetness to the brew. The addition of lactose gives the beer a smooth and rich mouthfeel, reminiscent of a milkshake.
One of the defining features of a milkshake IPA is the use of adjuncts to enhance the flavor profile. These adjuncts can range from tropical fruits like passion fruit, mango, and guava, to more indulgent flavors like chocolate, peanut butter, and coffee. These additions contribute to the beer's overall sweetness and create a complex and indulgent taste experience.
The use of fruits in milkshake IPAs adds a vibrant and juicy element to the beer. Fruits such as peaches, raspberries, and even citrus fruits can be used to give the beer a refreshing and fruity twist. The combination of the creamy lactose and the fruity adjuncts creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making milkshake IPAs a truly unique and enjoyable style of beer.
When it comes to brewing a milkshake IPA, brewers often focus on achieving a thick and hazy appearance. This is achieved through the use of certain grains and hops that contribute to the beer's cloudiness. Additionally, the addition of lactose and fruit purees can also contribute to the beer's opacity.
Personal anecdote: I vividly remember the first milkshake IPA I ever tried. It was a passion fruit and vanilla milkshake IPA and I was blown away by the combination of flavors. The tropical tang of the passion fruit blended perfectly with the creamy sweetness of the vanilla, creating a beer that was both refreshing and indulgent. It was like sipping on a tropical fruit smoothie, but with the added complexity and bitterness of an IPA. It was truly a unique and memorable drinking experience.
A milkshake style beer, or milkshake IPA, is a hazy IPA brewed with lactose and adjuncts such as tropical fruits, chocolate, peanut butter, or coffee. The addition of lactose gives the beer a creamy and smooth mouthfeel, while the adjuncts add a range of flavors and complexities. Whether you're a fan of fruity and tropical flavors or prefer more indulgent and decadent tastes, milkshake IPAs offer a delightful and unique drinking experience.