Did you know that there are over 100 different types of beer?
Yep, craft beer is famous for a reason! But if you walk into any bar or restaurant anywhere in the world, you’ll likely find two kinds of beer for sure – American Pale Ale and IPA.
These two beers are typically renowned for their fantastic taste and unique effect. But what exactly is American Pale Ale? And what is an IPA?
More importantly, what are the critical differences between them? If you want to learn more, keep reading as we break down everything you need to know about American Pale Ale vs. IPA. Let’s dive right into it.
What Is American Pale Ale?
An American Pale Ale is a beer typically brewed with American hops and pale malt. The term “American Pale Ale” is used to describe two different types of beer: the original pale ale brewed in England and the American Pale Ale developed in the United States.
The original pale ale was first brewed in England in the early 1800s. This beer style was originally designed to be a lighter and more refreshing alternative to the darker and heavier porters that were popular then.
The pale ale was a hit with the English public and soon became one of the most popular beer styles in England. It also soon grew in popularity in the U.S.
This beer style developed with American hops, giving the beer a distinctive flavor and aroma. American Pale Ales quickly became popular with beer drinkers in the United States, and they remain one of the most popular beer styles today.
What Is an IPA?
An IPA beer is a type of craft beer that is brewed with a strong focus on hops. IPA stands for “India Pale Ale” and was first brewed in England during the early 1800s. The beer was created to preserve hops during the long journey to India, and the extra hops helped to keep the beer from going bad during the hot, humid voyage.
Today, IPA beer is brewed all over the world and comes in a variety of styles. The common denominator among all IPA beers is hops, which provide the signature bitterness characteristic of the class. IPA beer can range in color from pale gold to deep amber and is typically quite cloudy due to the high hops content.
IPA beers are typically quite strong, with an alcohol content that ranges from 5% to 7%. The high hops content of IPA beers also makes them quite bitter. The bitterness of an IPA beer is often described as “on the palate” or “in the finish.”
Many IPA beers are also quite dry, with minimal sweetness.
There are a few different sub-styles of IPA beer, including:
- American IPA: This style of IPA beer is characterized by the use of American hops, which provide a more citrusy and floral flavor than other hops – American IPAs are typically quite bitter and have a strong hops presence
- English IPA: This style of IPA beer is brewed with English hops, which provide a more earthy and spicy flavor – English IPAs are typically not as bitter as American IPAs and have a more balanced flavor
- Imperial IPA: This IPA beer is brewed with a high amount of hops and has a high alcohol content. Thus they are typically very bitter and have a strong hops presence
IPA beer is a popular choice among craft beer drinkers and is often considered a “gateway” beer for those new to the world of craft beer. IPA beer is typically best enjoyed fresh and is often paired with food that can stand up to the strong flavor of the hops.
American Pale Ale vs IPA
There are many differences between American Pale Ale and India Pale Ale (IPA) beer. Still, the most notable difference is the hops, which is what gives it a different flavor profile.
American Pale Ale uses more hops than IPA, giving the beer a bitter taste. IPA is also brewed with more malt, which makes the beer sweeter.
The other significant difference between these two types of beer is in the hops. American Pale Ale is typically brewed with Cascade hops, which give the beer a characteristic citrusy flavor. On the other hand, India Pale Ale is brewed with English hops, which provide a more earthy and herbal flavor.
Another difference between the two beers is the alcohol content; IPA has a higher alcohol content than a pale ale.
If you’re wondering which one you should try, we suggest getting a beer flight at a local brewery near you. This will help you taste the key differences we’ve discussed above and decide which is better suited to your palette. This way, you are sure to find one that is your favorite go-to every time you go out!
Come Try Award-Winning Beers Today
We hope we’ve clarified the key differences between American Pale Ale vs IPA. Which one are you most excited to try?
Although these kinds of beer can often be confused, they are, in fact, very different. They have many different flavor profiles and brewing techniques, which can be adapted in many ways.
But why read about excellent beer when you could try some for yourself? Stop by Upstream Brewing Company in Omaha, Nebraska, to try award-winning craft beers today.
Click here to check out our incredible drinks menu, and book with us on OpenTable today!