Have you ever wondered why the IPA section on a menu is always the biggest? At our Cincinnati brewery, we see that curiosity all the time. People hear “IPA” and think of one thing: bitterness. But what if we told you that modern IPA beer styles range from piney and crisp to soft and bursting with tropical fruit?
This style is built on hops, which give beer incredible aroma and flavor, not just bitterness. Brewers use different hops and techniques to create wildly different experiences in your glass.
We made this guide to walk you through the main styles, explain common tasting notes, and show you their typical strength. We will even tell you what on our pizza menu pairs best with each one. Consider this your friendly map to finding an IPA you will truly enjoy.
What Makes an IPA an IPA?
It all comes down to the hops. Think of hops as the spice rack for a brewer. They add bitterness to balance the sweet malt, but more importantly, they pack in the aroma and flavor. You know that citrus, pine, or floral smell when you lift a glass? That’s the hops talking.
The style has a fun history. British brewers in the 1800s added extra hops to their pale ales as a natural preservative for the long sea voyage to India. That is where the name comes from. Modern brewers took that idea and ran with it, focusing on bold hop flavor and aroma.
How a brewer uses hops changes everything. It can give you a clear, bitter beer or a cloudy, juice-like one. That is why IPA tasting notes can range from sharp pine to soft peach.
Popular IPA Beer Styles Explained
You’re looking at a tap list full of IPAs. They all have those three letters, but they’re not the same beer. The trick is the balance. Is it crisp and bitter, or is it soft and juicy? Here’s a quick run-through of the main styles:
West Coast IPA
This is the original hop-forward standard. It is bright and clear, with pine and grapefruit notes and a clean, dry bitterness. They are usually between 6% and 7.5% ABV. Our Grateful West Coast IPA is a spot-on example with its piney, citrusy punch.
Hazy IPA
Flip the script for the Hazy IPA. It is cloudy and smooth. Brewers dial down the bitterness to let ripe fruit flavors like mango come through. Those juicy IPA tasting notes make it a great starting point.
American IPA
This is your great everyday IPA. It finds a sweet spot with a good hop character balanced by a touch of malt. It is super approachable for exploring different IPA beer styles.
Once you understand how hops shape flavor, the wide world of IPA styles makes a lot more sense.
ABV Ranges Across IPA Styles
What is the ABV number next to your beer? It just tells you how much alcohol is in there. It’s a good thing to glance at, because it clues you in on what you’re getting into.
IPAs really show up to the party in all shapes and sizes. You’ve got your session IPAs. These are the lightweights, usually under 5% ABV. Perfect for when you’re planning to have a few over some good conversations.
Your classic IPA beer styles, think of a solid West Coast or a reliable American IPA, they’re your middle ground. They hang out around 6% to 7.5% ABV. That’s where you get that great hop flavor that still feels easy to drink.
Then there are the big guys. Double IPAs and such. They push past 8% ABV. These are sipping beers, rich and complex. It’s nice to have that choice, whether you’re settling in for one or planning a few.
IPA Tasting Notes: How to Taste Like a Pro
Want to get more out of your IPA? It starts with looking, smelling, and sipping with a little focus. Here’s a simple way to do it.
First, look at your beer. Is it clear or hazy? That’s your first hint. Now give it a good sniff. Do you get citrus, pine, or maybe peach? Those are the hops talking.
Take a sip. Notice the bitterness first, then look for the flavors underneath. Can you taste what you smelled? Finally, pay attention to the finish. Does it leave your palate clean, or does the flavor stick around?
Trust your own senses here. Your opinion is the one that counts. A fun way to learn is to try two different IPA beer styles side by side at our bar. It’s the easiest way to see how those IPA tasting notes honestly differ from glass to glass.
Best Food Pairings for IPA Beers
Let’s match some of our beers with our kitchen’s best dishes. Hops in IPA beers are perfect for cutting through rich, cheesy, or spicy foods. They lift the flavors and keep your palate ready for the next bite.
Pairing IPAs with Pizza and Taproom Food
This is where the magic happens. A bold, piney IPA like our Grateful West Coast IPA is a powerhouse with our meat-heavy pizzas, like The Tony or The Old Milford. The beer’s crisp bitterness cuts straight through the pepperoni and sausage.
For something different, try our Peace Frog Citrus IPA with the Margherita pizza or the Chips and Queso. The lemon and lime peel notes in the beer beautifully brighten the fresh basil and cheese.
The key is to play around. Order a flight of our IPA beer styles with a pizza and see which combo you like best. (Check out our detailed IPA pairing tips.)
Exploring IPA Beer Styles at Little Miami Brewing Company
At our Cincinnati brewery, we love having a rotating lineup of IPAs on tap. It lets you explore the whole world of IPA beer styles without leaving the banks of the Little Miami River.
We always keep a classic like our Grateful West Coast IPA flowing. Our brewers are also constantly experimenting. You might find a limited-run Hazy IPA bursting with new tropical hop varieties. Or a smooth, sessionable IPA that’s perfect for a long afternoon. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Just ask our staff. We are always happy to guide you to a beer you will love.
Watch for our seasonal releases, too. We often brew special batches that capture the spirit of the season (like our seasonal Harvest Moon IPA). It is all part of the experience we aim to provide. A relaxed, friendly spot where you can taste great local beer in a beautiful setting. Pull up a chair, try a flight, and find your new favorite IPA right here.
FAQs About IPA Beers
What’s a good first IPA to try?
Go for a Hazy IPA or a balanced American IPA. They tend to be juicier and less harsh on the bitterness, which is an easier start.
Do all IPAs taste bitter?
No, they really don’t. A hazy IPA is built for low bitterness and big fruit flavor. A West Coast IPA will have that classic sharp bite. It depends on the style.
How is an IPA different from a Pale Ale?
A Pale Ale is like a lighter version. It uses similar hops but fewer of them, so you get less bitterness and more malt in the balance.
Which IPAs are the strongest?
Look for names like “Double” or “Imperial” IPA. Those are the big ones, often over 8% ABV, with a much richer and more powerful flavor.
Finding Your Favorite IPA Style
The world of IPAs is big, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. We’ve walked through the crisp bite of a West Coast, the juicy heart of a Hazy, and the reliable balance of an American IPA. There’s a perfect craft IPA beer waiting for every taste.
The best way to find yours is to stay curious. Forget any old ideas. The fun is in tasting.
Your next step is easy. Visit Little Miami Brewing Company. Grab a flight of IPA beer styles and discover your new favorite. We’ll save a seat for you by the river.
