From classic fruity numbers to unique new age sips, IPAs come in all shapes and sizes. Considered the king of craft brews and quite popular, this style is characterized by bold hops. Here's a look at the options available in India to get your six-pack at home.
India's long relationship with beer includes breweries (suras) dating back to 1500 BC. and traditional tribal brews using local spices - culminating in today's crop of innovative brands that are home to some of the best bottles in the industry. An important part of that history? 18th-century British practice of adding hops to beer when shipped to India. This was done to prevent it from going bad without freezing during the long hot journey that gives rise to the name India Pale Ale.
A few decades later, the flexibility and bold flavors of this production style quickly caught on with brewers and fermented beverage enthusiasts. It soon gained a reputation as a somewhat exclusive choice - the bitter and strong notes of the hops made it an acquired taste that only connoisseurs could fully appreciate. And as the craft beer revolution swept the globe, several iterations emerged – Session, New England, East Coast, American, British, West Coast, Belgian and more – each with their own unique characteristics. In India, lagers and stouts ruled for a while, and IPAs have only recently established themselves in the drinking habits of beer lovers.
Considered one of the most innovative brands in the beer industry, Bira 91 promises refreshing hops. Their Session IPA Grapefruit is no exception. It combines wheat and barley malts with Citra and Mosaic hops from the Northwestern United States. Salary? A juicy, hazy sip that's subtly sweet, balanced and deliciously tropical. You may even notice some spice. With great bitterness, it is powerful.
ABV: 4.5 percent
Price: Around 210 INR.
2. Goa Brewing Co. Eight Finger Eddie IPA:
A homegrown name known for its maverick, expressive beers, Goa Brewing Co. highlights Sunshine State culture. For example, The Eight Finger Eddie IPA is a nod to the popular American that put Goa on the hippie map, paving the way to the tourist-friendly destination it is today. The brew contains Goan water, steel cut oats, malted barley and modern hops. Every sip is fresh and creamy with tropical fruits.
ABV: 6 percent
Price: Around 200 INR
3.Maka Di Rose Brut IPA:
Homegrown brand Maka Di offers some of India's most exciting and delicious options. Their unique Rosé Brut IPA lives up to that reputation. It combines Nasik grapes with aromatic German and American hops. Salary? A beautiful pink filling with a bright citrus flavor. Each sip is slightly rich and effervescent, with moderate bitterness. The end result is dry thanks to an enzyme that gives the beer a Brut-like character.
ABV: 4.8 percent
Price: Around 200 INR
4. Brewdog Punk IPA:
Perhaps one of the biggest names in the beer industry, Brewdog's Punk IPA has been quite a hot seller for years. It pours gold and contains new world hops. Tropical fruits and caramel sing in every sip, complemented by hits of pineapple, lychee and grapefruit. The end result is sharp, bitter and sweet.
ABV: 5.4 percent.
Price: Around 525 INR.
