What is a Double IPA ?

From IPA to DIPA: A journey through Hoppy beers

Craft beer lovers are growing in number every day—and that's great news! But before diving into the world of Double IPAs, let’s start with the basics: what is an India Pale Ale? IPA stands for India Pale Ale, a beer style believed to have originated in the 18th century during the British Empire. According to legend, Pale Ales were sent to British troops in India. To withstand the long sea journey, brewers increased the alcohol content and hop levels—thanks to the natural preservative properties of hops. While that’s more myth than fact, the story lives on.

Today, IPAs are booming. Brewers around the world are constantly reinventing the style using ingredients from every corner of the globe—American, South African, and New Zealand hops, plus barley malt, wheat, and oats. No two IPAs are the same. Whether it’s a hazy NEIPA, a light Session IPA, or a sparkling Brut IPA, IPA recipes are endlessly adaptable and wildly popular.

What is a Double IPA?

Double IPA, also known as DIPA or Imperial IPA (IIPA), is exactly what it sounds like—an IPA with double the hops and more intense character. Originating in the U.S. in the 1990s, DIPAs are stronger, more aromatic, and considerably more bitter. They also pack a higher ABV, usually between 8% and 12%, and are best enjoyed between 8°C and 12°C.

DIPA beer

DIPAs often showcase a richer, malt-forward body and a powerful hoppy punch. For example, a classic IPA like Thornbridge's Jaipur sits around 60 IBU, while a bold DIPA like Omnipollo's Nebuchadnezzar can hit 100+ IBU.

Two main styles of Double IPA:

  • English DIPA: This style focuses on balance, highlighting a robust malt backbone to counter the hop bitterness. The aroma is present but more restrained, allowing malt and hop harmony to shine.
  • American DIPA: Bold and unapologetic, American DIPAs are all about hop-forward flavour. Expect explosive aromas and flavours of tropical fruit, citrus, pine, peach, and even floral notes—paired with a high alcohol content.

In summary, if you enjoy bold, bitter, and intensely aromatic beers, a chilled Double IPA is sure to impress your palate!

ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS TO YOUR HEALTH. CONSUME IN MODERATION.

Discover other styles of India Pale Ale beers with these articles : What is a stout beer ? What is a Trappist beer ? and What is a triple beer ?