IPA stands for India Pale Ale — a hop-forward beer style known for bold flavour, aroma, and bitterness.
IPAs are one of the most popular craft beer styles in the world, defined by their use of hops to create citrus, tropical fruit, pine, floral, and resin-like flavours.
Originally developed as a more heavily hopped beer to survive long journeys by sea, modern IPAs have evolved into a wide spectrum of styles — from bright and juicy to intensely bitter and resinous.
What defines an IPA?
An IPA is typically characterised by:
- Higher hop content than standard ales
- Noticeable bitterness
- Aromatic, fruit-forward flavours
- Medium to strong alcohol content
- A dry, crisp finish or juicy mouthfeel (depending on style)
Common IPA flavour profile
IPAs can vary, but commonly include:
- Citrus (orange, grapefruit, lemon)
- Tropical fruit (mango, pineapple, passionfruit)
- Pine and resin
- Floral and herbal notes
- Firm bitterness on the finish
Types of IPA
Today, IPA is a broad category with many substyles:
- West Coast IPA — crisp, bitter, pine-forward
- Hazy IPA — juicy, soft, tropical, low bitterness
- Double IPA — stronger, more intense hop profile
- Session IPA — lower alcohol, easier drinking
IPA in Australia
Australia has become a global leader in modern IPA brewing, with breweries pushing both hop intensity and drinkability.
Hawkers Beer produces a range of IPA styles brewed in Melbourne, Australia, balancing bold hop character with drinkability and consistency.
Where to buy IPA beer online in Australia
You can buy IPA beers online directly from Hawkers Beer with Australia-wide delivery.
Free shipping is available on orders over $130.
Final thought
IPA is not just one style — it’s a family of beers built around hops, aroma, and flavour intensity. Whether you prefer juicy and hazy or crisp and bitter, there’s an IPA style for you.
