Hazy IPAs, also known as New England IPAs or NEIPAs, have gained popularity in recent years and are known for their distinct appearance and flavor profile. The main difference between a regular IPA and a hazy IPA lies in the brewing process and the resulting characteristics of the beer.
1. Appearance: Hazy IPAs live up to their name by having a cloudy or hazy appearance. This haze is a result of the brewing technique used, which we’ll discuss in more detail later. On the other hand, regular IPAs tend to have a clear or translucent appearance, allowing you to see through the beer.
2. Flavor and Aroma: Hazy IPAs often have a more pronounced tropical fruit flavor and aroma compared to regular IPAs. The cloudiness of the beer can trap hop compounds and other aromatic compounds, resulting in a more intense and juicy flavor profile. This is one of the key reasons why hazy IPAs have become so popular, as they offer a different sensory experience than their clearer counterparts.
3. Mouthfeel: Hazy IPAs typically have a softer and smoother mouthfeel compared to regular IPAs. This can be attributed to the higher protein content and suspended yeast particles in the beer, which contribute to a more velvety texture on the palate. Regular IPAs, on the other hand, tend to have a crisper and drier mouthfeel.
4. Brewing Process: The brewing process for hazy IPAs involves a technique known as “dry hopping” during fermentation. Dry hopping is the process of adding hops directly to the fermenting beer, which enhances the beer’s hop aroma without adding significant bitterness. In the case of hazy IPAs, dry hopping is often done in larger quantities and at specific stages of fermentation to maximize the hop flavor and aroma.
Additionally, hazy IPAs typically use specific yeast strains that produce fruity esters, further enhancing the tropical fruit character. The yeast is often left in suspension, contributing to the beer’s haze.
5. Hop Bitterness: While regular IPAs are known for their hop bitterness, hazy IPAs tend to have a smoother and less bitter taste. This is because the brewing process of hazy IPAs focuses more on hop flavor and aroma rather than bitterness. The balance between hop bitterness and sweetness is often tilted towards the latter in hazy IPAs, making them more approachable for those who may not typically enjoy the bitterness of traditional IPAs.
The main differences between hazy IPAs and regular IPAs lie in their appearance, flavor and aroma profile, mouthfeel, and brewing techniques. Hazy IPAs are characterized by their cloudy appearance, stronger tropical fruit flavor and aroma, softer mouthfeel, and a focus on hop flavor rather than bitterness. They offer a unique and enjoyable drinking experience for beer enthusiasts looking for something different from the classic IPA style.