Two Hearted Ale, brewed by Bell’s Brewery, is often regarded as a classic representation of an American IPA. While it shares some similarities with West Coast IPAs, it is not explicitly categorized as one. To determine whether Two Hearted can be considered a West Coast IPA, we need to delve into the characteristics of both styles and compare them to the beer in question.
West Coast IPAs are known for their emphasis on hop bitterness, prominent piney and resinous flavors, and a strong malt backbone. They typically have a clear, golden appearance and showcase a drier finish. On the other hand, hazy IPAs, which have gained popularity in recent years, are characterized by their juicy, tropical fruit-forward flavors, softer bitterness, and hazy appearance.
Two Hearted Ale aligns more closely with the traditional West Coast IPA style. It is brewed with Centennial hops, a classic American hop variety known for its citrusy and piney characteristics. The beer showcases a strong malt presence, providing a solid backbone for the hops to shine. The hop bitterness is prominent but well-balanced, adding a refreshing bite to the overall flavor profile.
In terms of appearance, Two Hearted Ale is clear and golden, without the hazy appearance commonly associated with the newer hazy IPAs. This clarity is more in line with the traditional West Coast IPA style, which often prioritizes a clean and clear appearance.
While Two Hearted Ale exhibits some similarities to West Coast IPAs, it is essential to note that beer styles can evolve and blur over time. The IPA landscape has witnessed the rise of various sub-styles, including the hazy IPA, which has gained immense popularity. Two Hearted Ale predates the hazy IPA trend and remains rooted in the more traditional West Coast style.
From a personal perspective, I find Two Hearted Ale to be a fantastic representation of the West Coast IPA style. It delivers a balanced combination of hop bitterness, piney flavors, and a solid malt backbone, which I appreciate in this style of beer. The crisp and clear appearance further reinforces its alignment with the West Coast IPA tradition.
While Two Hearted Ale is not explicitly labeled as a West Coast IPA, it shares many characteristics with this style. Its emphasis on piney and citrusy hop flavors, strong malt presence, and clear appearance align it more closely with the traditional West Coast IPA style than the hazy IPA style prevalent today. Ultimately, whether you consider it a West Coast IPA or not may vary depending on personal interpretation and the evolving landscape of beer styles.