Try Before You Die: A Combo of 6 Different English IPAs & NEIPAs

The English IPA and New England IPA represent two distinct approaches to the India Pale Ale style, each defined by its unique characteristics and brewing traditions.

English IPAs trace their roots back to the 18th century, originally brewed to survive the long sea voyages to India. This style is noted for its balanced profile, where the hop bitterness is matched by a noticeable malt backbone. Traditional English hops like East Kent Goldings or Fuggle give it a characteristically earthy, floral, and sometimes citrusy aroma and flavor. These beers typically have moderate alcohol content, ranging from 5% to 7.5% ABV, and they display a range of golden to amber hues. The malt flavors often bring forward notes of biscuit or caramel, supporting the medium to high hop bitterness that characterizes the style. The overall experience is one of balance and subtlety, preferring earthy tones over bold hop intensity.​

In contrast, the New England IPA (NEIPA) is a much newer style that has gained popularity for its distinctly hazy appearance and a strong emphasis on hop flavor and aroma without the corresponding bitterness. This style features a soft, creamy body with a strong tropical fruit presence, such as pineapple, mango, and citrus, often derived from the use of American or New World hop varieties. NEIPAs are less bitter than their English counterparts, focusing more on the juicy and fruity flavors extracted from hops. They also often have a higher alcohol content, falling into the same range as English IPAs but presenting a very different drinking experience. The haze comes from certain brewing techniques, like the use of high-protein grains and heavy dry hopping, which contribute to its characteristic appearance and flavor profile.