Triple IPAs are a unique style of beer that takes the intensity and hop-forward nature of a Double IPA to the next level. These beers are typically characterized by their high alcohol content, usually clocking in at least 9.5% ABV. What sets a Triple IPA apart from its counterparts is not just the strength, but also the thick and syrupy body that accompanies it.
When it comes to hop character, Triple IPAs can share similarities with Double IPAs. They both showcase an emphasis on hops, resulting in a beer with a strong, bitter flavor profile. However, Triple IPAs take this to an extreme, with an even more intense hop presence. The hop flavors and aromas can range from citrusy and resinous to tropical and piney, depending on the hops used in the brewing process.
One of the defining features of a Triple IPA is its heavy body. Unlike the lighter and more crisp nature of a traditional IPA, Triple IPAs have a thicker and more viscous mouthfeel. This gives the beer a rich and full-bodied texture that coats the palate with each sip. The increased malt presence contributes to this thicker body, helping to balance out the intense hop bitterness and alcohol content.
Speaking of alcohol content, Triple IPAs are known for their high ABV. The elevated alcohol levels not only contribute to the beer’s overall strength but also add a warming sensation as you drink it. This can make a Triple IPA quite potent, so it’s important to enjoy it responsibly and savor it slowly.
In terms of flavor, Triple IPAs can vary greatly depending on the specific beer and brewery. Some may lean more towards the malt side, offering a slightly sweeter and caramel-like taste to counterbalance the hop bitterness. Others may focus more on the hops, delivering a punch of bold and vibrant flavors that can be quite resinous and sticky on the palate.
Triple IPAs are not as widely available as their Double IPA or traditional IPA counterparts. They are often brewed in limited quantities and released as special or seasonal offerings. This scarcity can make finding a well-crafted Triple IPA a true beer enthusiast’s delight.
What makes an IPA a triple is its intense hop character, high alcohol content (at least 9.5% ABV), and a thick and syrupy body. These factors combine to create a beer that pushes the boundaries of flavor and intensity, offering a unique and memorable drinking experience for those who seek it out. So, if you’re a fan of hop-forward beers and enjoy exploring the bolder side of craft beer, a Triple IPA might just be your new favorite brew.