In both cases, the hops are the star of the show. English IPAs show a more estery yeast profile than their American counterparts, which are usually fermented with “clean” ale yeasts. American IPAs are usually stronger and hoppier, but many classic American examples are lighter in color and are better attenuated than median British examples. However, clear-cut examples of both sub-styles exist, too.ĭifferences between the two beers can be summarized this way: Although both kinds of IPA are malty, English IPAs generally show more biscuity or nutty malt character and are less highly attenuated.

Both brews share a lot of similarities and overlap in many style parameters, to the extent that some commercial examples may be hard to categorize (even if they are easy to drink). In the two articles in this package - “IPA UK,” by Terry Foster and “IPA USA,” by Chris Colby - we present the classic English style and its younger American cousin. Here, craft brewers picked up on English pale ales and started brewing their own versions with American hops.

Fast forward to the 1980’s in the United States. Originally it was an export beer, a strong pale ale brewed with extra hops to act as preservatives during the long journey from England to the British troops in India.

Pilsner beer vs ipa