In my opinion, the best IPA beer in Australia is the Balter IIPA (Imperial IPA). This beer is brewed by Balter Brewing Company, which is known for their commitment to quality and innovation in craft brewing.
The Balter IIPA is a standout in the IPA category due to its bold and intense flavor profile. It pours a beautiful golden color with a frothy white head. The aroma is filled with citrusy hop notes, along with hints of pine and tropical fruits. Upon tasting, you’re immediately hit with a burst of hop bitterness that is balanced out by a slightly sweet malt backbone. The flavors of grapefruit, passionfruit, and pine resin really shine through, making for a truly memorable drinking experience.
What sets the Balter IIPA apart from other IPAs is its exceptional balance. Despite its high alcohol content, which sits at a hefty 8.6%, the beer remains incredibly drinkable. The maltiness helps to mellow out the bitterness, while still allowing the hops to take center stage. It’s a beer that manages to be both bold and smooth at the same time.
Another standout IPA in Australia is the BentSpoke Cluster 8. This Imperial IPA is brewed by the BentSpoke Brewing Co., a Canberra-based brewery known for their unique and innovative beers. The Cluster 8 is a hop lover’s dream, with a big hop aroma and a resinous, bitter flavor profile. It’s a beer that demands attention and is not for the faint of heart.
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, but still packed with flavor, the Stone & Wood Pacific Ale is a fantastic option. This Pale Ale has become a staple in the Australian craft beer scene, and for good reason. It’s a refreshing and easy-drinking beer that showcases the tropical and citrusy flavors of Australian hops. It’s a beer that pairs perfectly with a lazy afternoon in the sun.
For those who enjoy a bit of a twist on the traditional IPA, the Modus Operandi Former Tenant is a great choice. This Red IPA is bursting with hop flavor, but also features a rich and malty backbone. The combination of caramel and toffee flavors with the hoppy bitterness creates a complex and satisfying beer.
If you’re a fan of dark beers, the Nail Clout Stout is a must-try. This Imperial Stout is incredibly rich and full-bodied, with flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and roasted malt. It’s a beer that packs a punch and is perfect for sipping on a cold winter’s night.
The Boatrocker Ramjet is a series of Imperial Stouts that have garnered a cult following in the Australian craft beer community. Each year, Boatrocker releases a new batch of Ramjet, and each one is more decadent and delicious than the last. These beers are aged in whiskey barrels, which adds layers of complexity and depth to the already rich and flavorful base beer.
Australia has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are so many incredible IPAs to choose from. Whether you prefer a bold and hop-forward beer like the Balter IIPA or something a bit more balanced like the Stone & Wood Pacific Ale, there’s something for everyone. Cheers to exploring the world of Australian IPAs!