What Is Milkshake IPA? Discover the creamy side of Hoppy beers

The IPA family continues to grow, and among its most surprising innovations is the Milkshake IPA. If you've already tried a Session IPA, Double IPA, Triple IPA, or even a Brut IPA, it's time to discover this creamy and fruity variant that’s delighting craft beer fans worldwide.

What is an IPA?

IPA stands for India Pale Ale, a beer style that originated in England in the 18th century. While many assume its origins are American, it was actually British brewers who first created this hoppy beer. Legends vary: some say George Hodgson invented it, others claim it was a solution to preserving beer during long sea voyages to India by adding more hops.

Regardless of the exact story, the key characteristic of an IPA is its intense hoppiness and often higher alcohol content. Today, brewers enjoy experimenting with the IPA base to develop new and exciting flavour profiles—fruity, herbal, spicy, and now, milky.

What is a Milkshake IPA?

A Milkshake IPA is a modern twist on the classic IPA style. What makes it unique? The addition of lactose—a milk sugar that doesn’t ferment—gives the beer a creamy, smooth mouthfeel and more body. This creates a beer that is less bitter and more approachable, especially for those who enjoy sweeter flavour profiles.

To enhance the milkshake sensation, brewers often add ingredients such as vanilla, coconut, apricot, orange, lemon, passion fruit, mango, or even pineapple. The result? A hazy, juicy, and flavour-packed brew that blurs the line between beer and smoothie.

The Origins of Milkshake IPA

The Milkshake IPA first emerged in 2015 when a Pennsylvania brewer experimented with a NEIPA by adding lactose and generous hop additions. He took it a step further with 50 pounds of green apple purée, resulting in a richer, rounder beer. And so, a new sub-style was born.

Want to try Milkshake IPA?

Explore the Milkshake IPA style with La Débauche's Milkshake Passion IPA. Brewed in France, it features a vibrant orange hue, a fine white head, and intense aromas of mango and passion fruit balanced by a subtle bitterness. It's the perfect entry point for those curious about this playful beer style.

Explore more IPA varieties

Want to go further into the world of IPAs? Discover other styles like the Double IPA or, the NEIPA or the Bock beer to experience the full range of hoppy innovations.

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