Belgian IPA

IPA

Overall Impression: A dry, hoppy IPA with fruitiness and spiciness of Belgian yeast. Often lighter in color and more attenuated, similar to a Belgian Tripel that has been brewed with more hops.

Aroma: Moderate to high hop aroma, often reflecting the character of American or New World hops (tropical, melon, stone fruit, citrus, piney, etc.) or Continental hops (spicy, herbal, floral, etc.), possibly with a light dry-hop note. Gentle malt sweetness, sometimes with a sugary or honey character, but rarely caramel. Moderate to high esters, often pears, apples, citrus, or banana. Light spice, clove or pepper, optional. Light alcohol aroma optional.

Appearance: Light golden to amber in color. Moderate to large off-white head with good retention. Good to quite hazy clarity.

Flavor: Moderate fruity and spicy flavors, same descriptors as aroma. Moderate to high hop flavor, same descriptors as aroma. Light, relatively neutral grainy malt flavor, optionally with low toast, caramel, or honey. Moderate to high bitterness. Dry to medium-dry finish that often accentuates the perception of bitterness. Aftertaste has a lingering bitterness but is not harsh.

Mouthfeel: Light to medium body. Medium to high carbonation level, which can lighten the impression of body. Light warmth optional.

Comments: The choice of yeast strain and hop varieties is critical since many choices will clash horribly.

History: During the boom of craft and heavily hopped ales, the Belgians thought, eating Boyussel waffles and seizing them with Liege salad, why are we worse? And they just adapted the American IPA for Belgian yeast, and sometimes just adding more hops to a stronger pale beer.

Style Comparison: A cross between an American IPA or Double IPA with a Belgian Golden Strong Ale or Belgian Tripel. This style is may be spicier, stronger, drier, and fruitier than an American IPA.

Commercial Examples: Brewery Vivant Triomphe, Green Flash Le Freak, Houblon Chouffe, Urthel Hop It