As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze various styles of beer, including hazy and cloudy IPAs. While some may argue that there is not much distinction between the two, I believe there are subtle differences that can be discerned.
Firstly, let's address the term “hazy” itself. Hazy IPA refers to a style of beer that has a slightly cloudy appearance, often resembling a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. This haze is a result of the beer being unfiltered or partially filtered, allowing some of the yeast and hop particulates to remain in suspension. This can create a visually appealing and somewhat opaque appearance.
On the other hand, a cloudy IPA, or New England IPA (NEIPA), takes the haze to another level. NEIPAs tend to have an even cloudier appearance, often resembling a glass of thick, pulpy fruit juice. This cloudiness is a result of the beer being heavily dry-hopped and sometimes containing a higher concentration of proteins and hop oils. The combination of these factors contributes to a more turbid and less transparent appearance compared to hazy IPAs.
Moving beyond appearance, the differences between hazy and cloudy IPAs also extend to mouthfeel and aroma. Hazy IPAs are generally lighter-bodied, offering a more delicate and crisp mouthfeel. They often showcase a balance between the hop bitterness and the malt backbone, providing a refreshing and drinkable experience.
On the other hand, NEIPAs tend to be thicker in mouthfeel and texture. They can have a velvety or creamy sensation on the palate, often due to the presence of oats or wheat in the grain bill. This enhanced mouthfeel adds a luxurious and smooth quality to the beer, making it feel almost like a dessert in a glass.
In terms of aroma, both styles of IPA are known for their hop-forward nature. However, NEIPAs often exhibit a more intense and expressive aromatic profile. The heavy dry-hopping technique used in brewing NEIPAs allows for a greater extraction of hop oils, resulting in a burst of tropical fruit, citrus, and floral aromas. These aromatics can be incredibly enticing and contribute to the overall sensory experience of the beer.
To summarize, while hazy and cloudy IPAs may share some similarities, there are notable distinctions between the two. Hazy IPAs tend to have a lighter body, a slightly cloudy appearance, and a balanced mouthfeel, while NEIPAs are typically thicker in texture, more turbid in appearance, and offer a more intense aromatic experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two styles comes down to personal preference and the desired sensory experience.