One of the freshest additions to the constantly evolving craft beer scene is the Cold IPA. Capturing the attention of hopheads and lager lovers alike, this fresh, new style offers a clean, crisp twist on the traditional IPA. But what exactly is it, and why is it making waves in the craft beer community? Let’s dig in.
What Is a Cold IPA?
Cold IPAs aren’t just a colder version of traditional IPAs. They’re a hybrid style that combines the hoppy intensity of a West Coast IPA with the crisp drinkability of a lager. Unlike hazy or malty IPAs, this newer style is brewed to be clear, snappy, and hop-forward without the heaviness.
Key characteristics include lager yeast, a clean malt base with adjuncts like rice or corn, a high hop aroma, and cold conditioning to enhance the brew’s clarity and crispness. The result? A beer that’s boldly bitter, refreshingly dry, and surprisingly clean on the finish.
How Is It Made?
Unlike traditional IPAs, which are fermented with ale yeast at higher temperatures, Cold IPAs are fermented using lager yeast in the 60–65°F range. This method speeds up the process while still keeping the beer clean and crisp.
Another key aspect of the brewing process is using adjuncts like rice or corn. These ingredients keep the beer’s malt profile light and allow the hops to shine.
Cold IPAs also go through cold conditioning, or lagering, which refines the flavor by smoothing out the profile, making it bright, clean, and highly drinkable.
What Does It Taste Like?
Expect all the bold hop flavor of a West Coast IPA – think citrus zest, pine, resin, and tropical fruit – but with a much lighter body and refreshing finish. There’s less malt interference, allowing the hops to be the star without overwhelming the palate. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys the boldness of an IPA but prefers the refreshment of a lager.
Where Did It Come From?
The Cold IPA is credited to Wayfinder Beer in Portland, Oregon. Brewmaster Kevin Davey wanted a lighter, brighter, and more drinkable beer than the heavier IPAs dominating the market. He debuted this new brew in 2018, sparking a nationwide trend among experimental craft brewers across the U.S.
How Does It Compare to IPLs and West Coast IPAs?
It’s easy to confuse Cold IPAs with India Pale Lagers (IPLs). The differences are subtle but significant. While IPLs typically taste more like lagers with added hops, Cold IPAs are brewed to highlight IPA-level hop intensity on a lager-like base.
Compared to a West Coast IPA, the Cold IPA is cleaner, crisper, and just as hoppy, but lacking the caramel or bready malt backbone common in traditional IPAs.
Why Should You Try a Cold IPA?
If you love hops but find some IPAs to be too heavy or sweet, the Cold IPA might be your perfect pint. It’s refreshing and crushable, loaded with modern hop flavor, and brewed for repeat pours. Whether you’re a longtime IPA drinker or just starting to explore craft beer, the Cold IPA offers a unique twist that’s easy to love.
Chill Out with a Cold IPA at The Growler Guys
The Cold IPA is one trend that’s here to stay. It’s a thoughtful brewing evolution that merges the best of both worlds: hop intensity and lager drinkability. Try one at your local Growler Guys today. With our extensive rotating taps list, there’s always a new trend to try. Stop in for a pint, flight, or growler fill today.
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