Overview: As winter’s chill begins to fade, craft brewers are releasing a fresh wave of session India Pale Ales (IPAs) that promise to quench the thirst of hopheads everywhere. In this article, we’ll delve into three standout examples from Highland Brewing, Outer Range Brewing, and BrewDog USA.
The Full Story
Session IPAs have long been a staple in craft beer circles, offering a balance between flavor and drinkability that’s hard to resist. However, with the rise of new breweries and innovative brewing techniques, these beers are evolving at an incredible pace. From bright tropical notes to bold citrus flavors, each brewery is pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a session IPA.
Highland Brewing’s Daycation IPA stands out for its surprisingly full-bodied take on the style. Crafted with Mosaic, El Dorado, Azacca, and Apollo hops, this beer boasts bright f papaya, tangerine, and pine notes that are sure to tantalize even the most discerning palates.
Meanwhile, Outer Range Brewing’s In The Deep Steep is a 9% ABV West Coast IPA that defies conventions with its juicy grapefruit, peach, and mango flavors. This beer may be high-octane, but it’s still remarkably drinkable thanks to its plush, silky mouthfeel.
BrewDog USA’s new IPA takes a more traditional approach, balancing bright tropical and citrus notes with subtle pine and clean mellow bitterness. At 6.3% ABV, this beer is the perfect choice for those seeking a sessionable IPA that won’t sacrifice flavor in the process.
Production & Profile
The production of these session IPAs varies significantly between breweries, but one thing remains constant: attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Highland Brewing’s Daycation IPA is brewed with high-quality Mosaic hops from Washington state, while Outer Range Brewing sources its El Dorado hops from the Pacific Northwest.
When it comes to flavor profiles, each brewery has taken a unique approach. Highland’s beer features bright tropical notes and a crisp finish, whereas Outer Range’s In The Deep Steep boasts juicy fruit flavors and a silky mouthfeel. BrewDog USA’s IPA strikes a balance between citrus and pine notes for an incredibly refreshing taste experience.
Brand & Industry History
Highland Brewing has been at the forefront of Asheville, NC’s craft beer scene since 1994. Founded by Oscar Wong, this brewery holds the distinction of being one of the first to open in the region post-Prohibition and is now recognized as a leader in innovative brewing techniques.
Outer Range Brewing, on the other hand, has made a name for itself with its high-altitude taproom located at 9,100 ft. Founded by Army veterans Lee and Emily Cleghorn in 2016, this brewery celebrates its unique location through beers that are both bold and refreshing.
What This Means
The release of these session IPAs signals a shift towards more approachable brews within the craft beer world. As consumers increasingly seek out balanced flavors without sacrificing complexity or character, breweries like Highland Brewing, Outer Range Brewing, and BrewDog USA are answering the call.
Consumer Takeaway
For those seeking an exciting new IPA to try this spring, look no further than these standout session IPAs. Whether you prefer bright tropical notes or bold citrus flavors, there’s something for everyone in this lineup of refreshing brews.
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