A session IPA is a unique style of beer that combines the hoppy characteristics of an IPA with the easy-drinking nature of a session ale. It's a beer that fills in the middle of a hoppy Venn diagram, bringing together the best of both worlds.
To understand what makes a session IPA, we need to first look at the components that define it. The term “session” refers to a beer that is lower in alcohol content, typically around 4-5% ABV (alcohol by volume). This lower alcohol level allows for a longer, more relaxed drinking session without the effects of high alcohol content.
The IPA, on the other hand, is known for its bold hoppy flavors and higher alcohol content. It's a style that has gained immense popularity for its intense bitterness and aromatic qualities. However, the higher ABV can sometimes limit the drinkability of IPAs, making them less suitable for longer sessions.
So, the challenge in creating a session IPA lies in reducing the strength of an IPA while still retaining its hoppy characteristics and adding more malty notes. This is done through a careful balancing act between the malt profile and hop additions.
In terms of malts, session IPAs often incorporate a variety of base malts, such as pale malt or even some specialty malts to add depth and complexity to the beer. These malts provide a solid foundation and help to balance out the hop bitterness, resulting in a more rounded and approachable flavor profile.
When it comes to hops, session IPAs showcase a range of hop varieties, but they are generally less aggressive and more balanced than traditional IPAs. This means using hops that offer a pleasant hop aroma and flavor without overwhelming the palate with excessive bitterness. Citrusy, floral, and tropical fruit hop varieties are commonly used to achieve this balance.
The brewing process for a session IPA is similar to that of an IPA, with the notable difference being the reduction in the amount of malt and hops used. This reduction helps to lower the alcohol content and bitterness, while still maintaining a flavorful and hop-forward beer.
The result is a session IPA that is lighter in body, lower in alcohol, and more approachable than its higher ABV IPA counterparts. It offers a refreshing and hoppy experience without overwhelming the palate or leaving you feeling too intoxicated after enjoying a few pints.
Personally, as a sommelier and brewer, I find session IPAs to be a fantastic choice for those who enjoy the hoppy flavors of an IPA but prefer a more sessionable option. They provide a great balance between hop bitterness and malt sweetness, making them highly enjoyable for extended drinking sessions or pairing with various foods.
A session IPA is a beer that bridges the gap between the hoppy intensity of an IPA and the drinkability of a session ale. By reducing the alcohol content and hop bitterness, while maintaining a solid malt profile, session IPAs offer a flavorful and approachable option for those seeking a hop-forward beer without the high ABV.