Did you know that 65% of adults enjoy having an alcoholic drink? If you’re one of them, you may be interested in expanding your knowledge base when it comes to beer. From wheat beers to lagers and stouts, there are plenty of beer styles to investigate.
But if you’re in the mood for a hoppy flavor profile, you might just want to reach for an IPA.
What is the difference between a double dry hopped vs a double IPA? Read on to learn more!
Defining the Double IPA
IPA beer lovers enjoy the signature bitterness and hoppiness of this popular style of craft beer. With a double IPA, you can expect an even more intense flavor explosion when you take a sip. In many cases, the taste will skew toward being hoppier with a double IPA, and you’ll experience deeper aromas and flavors overall.
Yes, double IPAs contain more hops and malt than the standard IPA. But the addition of malts can change the flavor profile to one that isn’t as bitter in some instances. It depends on the particular beer!
In doubles, the presence of malt helps to balance the bitterness and smooth out the flavor. The result is a taste that can be bold, rich, and even sweet.
Some double IPAs have fruity or piney notes. You may taste a touch of caramel, as well, from the added malt content.
A double IPA is recognizable for its darker color, too. You’ll notice the difference from a standard IPA when you pour a double into a tulip glass. Expect a deeper amber color and foamy head.
When you order a double IPA, plan on taking your time and sipping it. With a double IPA, the alcohol content will be above the 7% ABV mark. This is higher than what you’ll see with a standard IPA, which usually is in the 5 to 7% range.
Look for double IPAs under the title of imperial or extra, as well. These descriptors mean the same thing — you’re getting a double IPA. No matter the title, you’ll enjoy these medium-bodied beers with a smooth mouthfeel and rich taste.
Up the Hops with a DDH IPA
If you really love hops, you can meet that craving with a double dry hopped (DDH) IPA. This variation in the IPA universe packs an even bigger, hoppier punch than a standard IPA. And, depending on the beer, its hoppiness can top some double IPAs without the DDH designation.
With a DDH IPA, you’ll taste the hops, front and center. That’s because each barrel has about twice as many hops as a standard single-hopped beer. And this addition usually happens during two points of the fermentation process.
During the beer brewing process, the hops are added to a DDH IPA beer when the liquid is cool. By contrast, hops are added to a standard beer when the brewed liquid is hot. Adding hops when the liquid is cool translates to more flavor — but not at the expense of added bitterness.
Dry hopping can mean that the beer contains twice as many hops than the brewmaster added during one step in the process. It could also mean the beer has been through the hopping process twice. There’s no consensus about the exact definition of the DDH process.
You’ll find the dry hopping process at work in New England-style IPAs as well as other craft brew delicacies. For hopheads who can’t get enough, DDH IPAs might just be the perfect choice.
Choose the Best IPA Beer
Is a DDH IPA better than a double IPA? Technically, a double IPA can be a DDH beer, so the two labels aren’t mutually exclusive.
The same can be said of single or triple IPAs, too. But the mystery of the process and tendency to equate the double in DDH with better quality gives these IPAs an edge. In other words, IPA drinkers who see DDH on the label will be curious.
The confusing DDH label may be a marketing ploy used to attract hop heads to new beers. It’s not hard to find a DDH beer on store shelves or in tap rooms. Just be prepared to pay a little more from your budget for a six-pack thanks to their novelty appeal.
In fact, many brewmasters use the dry hopping process when they’re brewing double or triple IPAs. It’s become a common practice and you may have unknowingly had a DDH beer already.
The malt presence in these beers can stand up to the intensity of the extra hops. And the resulting beer is aromatic and flavorful without being overly bitter.
As far as which type of IPA beer is better, it’s all a matter of personal preference. If you’re a big fan of beer hops, you may want to seek out a DDH IPA. You can anticipate that these beers will pack a hoppier punch than other IPAs.
For those who want the potential for sweeter notes from a maltier presence, a standard double IPA might be better. Your best bet is to try a flight of IPAs and determine where your taste preferences fall.
What Is a Double Dry Hopped Vs a Double IPA?
Either craft beer offers a more intense version of the standard IPA that any hops aficionado will love. Thanks to a longer brewing process, both IPA styles offer a hops-forward flavor that you’ll want to take your time enjoying.
When you’re ready to enjoy craft beer alongside a delicious meal make a reservation today online or call 402-344-0200!