IPA and the South African craft beer scene is flourishing, offering an exciting array of brews to tantalize even the most discerning palate. However, the world of India Pale Ales (IPAs) can seem daunting, with their bold hoppy flavours and diverse styles. Fear not, aspiring beer lovers! This guide will equip you with the knowledge – and recommendations – to navigate the world of IPAs and discover brews that complement your braai and beyond.
Exploring the Hoppy Landscape:
Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s explore the diverse range of IPAs available. Broadly, two main styles dominate the scene:
- West Coast IPAs: Originating from the US, these classic IPAs boast pronounced bitterness that’s balanced by citrus and piney hop notes. They usually have a clear appearance and a refreshing finish.
- New England IPAs (NEIPAs): These newer-age IPAs hail from the Northeast US and are known for their juicier, fruitier hop flavours with a hazy appearance. They’re typically less bitter and offer a smooth, creamy mouthfeel.
Beyond the Bitterness:
While bitterness defines IPAs, it’s important to remember it’s not the sole factor. These brews boast a diverse flavour profile influenced by different hops and brewing techniques. These hops can impart citrus (think grapefruit, orange), tropical fruits (mango, pineapple), floral (lavender, rose), and even earthy (pine, resin) notes.
Beginner-Friendly IPA for Your Braai:
Now that you have a basic understanding, let’s explore some fantastic options perfect for South African beginners:
- Devil’s Peak IPA (West Coast IPA): This proudly South African IPA is a great introductory choice. Its moderate bitterness is balanced by bright citrus and pine notes, making it a refreshing and approachable option.
- Mitchells Naked Emperor (NEIPA): For those seeking a juicier and fruitier experience, this NEIPA is a perfect choice. It offers notes of citrus, peach, and melon with a smooth, hazy body and a subtle bitterness.
- Darling Brew Devil’s Backbone (American Pale Ale): This American Pale Ale serves as a great stepping stone. Offering a milder hop profile with hints of citrus and pine, it allows you to ease into the hoppier world of IPAs.
- Flying Dutchman Pale Ale: This South African offering features a balanced malt profile with a touch of citrusy hops, making it a light-bodied and refreshing
- Soweto Gold Golden Ale: While not technically an IPA, this golden ale offers a subtle hoppy character with honey and bready notes, making it a gentle introduction to hoppy flavours.
Tips for Navigating the Hoppy Journey:
- Start slow and low: Begin with lower-alcohol IPAs or pale ales to ease your palate into the hoppy world.
- Sniff it out: Explore the beer’s aroma before taking a sip. This can help you identify different hop characteristics and anticipate the flavour profile.
- Savor the sip: Don’t gulp! Take small sips to appreciate the beer’s complex flavours and aromas.
- Pair it with a braai: Pairing your IPA with complementary food can enhance your experience. Consider salty boerewors rolls, spicy peri-peri chicken, or even fresh oysters to create a delicious balance.
- Embrace the adventure: As you gain confidence, explore different South African craft breweries and their diverse IPA offerings. There’s a world of hoppy flavours waiting to be discovered!
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your IPA Horizons:
Once you’ve mastered the beginner-friendly options, feel free to venture into more adventurous territory. Here are some additional styles to explore:
- Double IPAs (DIPAs): These boast a higher alcohol content and a more pronounced hop character compared to traditional IPAs.
- Session IPAs: These low-alcohol IPAs are perfect for those wanting a lighter option with a balanced hop presence.
- South African IPAs: Many South African breweries are experimenting with unique hop combinations and local ingredients, creating exciting and distinctive IPAs.
So, grab your favourite glass, fire up the braai, and embark on your IPA journey with this guide and a spirit of exploration. Cheers to discovering your perfect hoppy match!