As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I am thrilled to share my insights on what distinguishes a New England IPA from other IPAs. The New England IPA, also known as NEIPA or Hazy IPA, has gained significant popularity in recent years for its unique characteristics that set it apart from traditional IPAs.
Appearance:
One of the most noticeable features of a New England IPA is its appearance. Unlike clear and filtered IPAs, NEIPAs are intentionally left unfiltered, resulting in a hazy and turbid appearance. The cloudy nature of NEIPAs is often compared to that of freshly squeezed orange juice. This haziness is achieved by the inclusion of a significant amount of proteins, yeast, and hop particles, giving it a distinct visual appeal.
Low Bitterness:
While bitterness is a defining characteristic of many IPAs, the New England IPA takes a different approach. NEIPAs are known for having an exceptionally low bitterness compared to their counterparts. This is achieved by reducing the amount of hops added during the brewing process, particularly during the boil stage. Instead, NEIPAs focus on hop additions during late stages, such as dry hopping, which contributes more to the aroma and flavor profile rather than bitterness.
Fruity Flavor Profile:
The flavor profile of a New England IPA is often described as exceptionally fruity and juicy. This is due to the combination of specific hop varieties used and the brewing techniques employed. NEIPAs typically showcase hop varieties that impart tropical fruit, citrus, and stone fruit flavors, such as Citra, Mosaic, Amarillo, and Galaxy. These hops are added in large quantities, especially during dry hopping, to enhance the fruity characteristics. The result is a beer that bursts with vibrant fruit flavors, reminiscent of ripe mangoes, pineapple, grapefruit, and peach.
Soft and Creamy Mouthfeel:
Another defining characteristic of a New England IPA is its soft and creamy mouthfeel. This is achieved through the use of specific malt varieties and brewing techniques. NEIPAs often incorporate higher proportions of oats and wheat in the grain bill, which imparts a smooth and velvety texture. The addition of flaked oats or wheat contributes to a fuller body, creating a luscious and creamy mouthfeel that enhances the overall drinking experience.
Aromatics:
The aroma of a New England IPA is a crucial aspect that sets it apart from other IPAs. NEIPAs are known for their intense and aromatic hop profile. The use of late hop additions and dry hopping allows for a more pronounced and complex aroma. Expect enticing aromas of tropical fruits, citrus zest, pine, and floral notes to waft from your glass. The aroma of a NEIPA can be so captivating that it often entices beer enthusiasts from across the room.
Evolution of the Style:
It's worth noting that the New England IPA is a relatively new style that has evolved over time. It originated in the northeastern United States, particularly in states like Vermont and Massachusetts, where breweries like The Alchemist and Tree House Brewing Company played a significant role in popularizing the style. Over the years, the brewing community has experimented and refined the techniques and ingredients to create the NEIPA we know today.
To summarize, a New England IPA stands out from other IPAs due to its unfiltered and hazy appearance, low bitterness, fruity flavor profile, soft and creamy mouthfeel, and intense hop aromatics. This style has captivated beer enthusiasts with its unique characteristics, offering a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional IPAs.