The India pale ale is not an Indian beer, the home of this modern classic is England. The IPA style was invented to sustain the long and gruelling voyage from England to India without declining in quality. This beer style doesn’t get seasick thanks to generous amonts of hops in the recipe. Today, the IPA style has become a favourite among beer connoisseurs all over the world.

Most modern India pale ales are inspired by the craft brewery tradition in the US. IPAs are often quite dry and crisp with a distinct bitterness, and a warming sensation from the alcohol making the IPA a flavourful beer style with plenty of character. Not a beer for beginners, but once you learn to love IPAs there’s no going back. 

Bitter and aromatic beers are delicious but notoriously difficult to pair with food. There are options though, and they are awesome. Look towards salty, fatty, and spicy elements, and big flavours. Modern style IPAs are rooted in North America, and they are amazing with American fast-food classics like hamburgers, chicken wings, and pulled pork. But IPAs also work with spicy Asian and Mexican dishes … even aged cheese.