A Beginner’s Guide to the Different Styles of IPA

If you’re new to craft beer, few categories feel as vast (and sometimes confusing) as the IPA. Short for India Pale Ale, IPA is now less a single style and more a family of hop-forward beers, ranging from crisp and bitter to soft and juicy.

Here’s a simple guide to the main IPA styles you’re likely to encounter — and what to expect from each.

British IPA

The original.
British IPAs are the historic foundation of the style. Compared to modern versions, they’re:

• More balanced than aggressive

• Malt-forward with biscuit or toffee notes

• Moderately bitter

• Earthy, floral hop character

Good for: People who enjoy traditional ales and want something flavourful but not overwhelming.

American IPA

Bolder and brighter.
When American craft brewers reinvented IPA, they dialled up the hops.

• Strong citrus, pine, resin flavours

• Noticeable bitterness

• Clean, crisp finish

• Often stronger in alcohol (6–7.5%+)

Good for: Those who like bold flavours and a more assertive bitterness.

West Coast IPA

A sub-style of American IPA, made famous in places like California.

• Very clear and golden

• High bitterness

• Piney, grapefruit, resin notes

• Dry finish

Good for: Drinkers who want sharp, clean, classic hop character.

New England IPA (NEIPA / Hazy IPA)

The opposite of West Coast IPA in many ways.

• Hazy appearance

• Soft, pillowy mouthfeel

• Low perceived bitterness

• Juicy tropical fruit flavours (mango, pineapple, peach)

Often associated with breweries in the north-east US.

Good for: Beginners who don’t like bitterness but enjoy fruity flavours.

Double IPA (DIPA / Imperial IPA)

Think of it as IPA turned up to 11.

• Higher alcohol (often 7.5–9%+)

• Bigger hop intensity

• Fuller body

• More sweetness to balance bitterness

Good for: Experienced drinkers who want intensity and strength.

Session IPA

All the hop flavour, less alcohol.

• Lower ABV (usually 3–5%)

• Lighter body

• Refreshing and easy-drinking

• Still aromatic and hoppy

Good for: Social occasions when you want flavour without the strength.

How to Choose Your First IPA

If you’re just starting out:

• Prefer less bitterness? Try a New England IPA.

• Like crisp and dry? Go for a West Coast IPA.

• Want something traditional? Start with a British IPA.

• Curious about big, bold flavours? Explore a Double IPA.

• Want easy drinking? Pick a Session IPA.

IPA isn’t just one beer — it’s a spectrum. From malty and balanced to hazy and tropical, there’s almost certainly a version that suits your palate.

The best advice for beginners? Try a few different styles side by side. You’ll quickly discover whether you lean towards bitter and crisp or soft and juicy — and that’s where your IPA journey really begins.