Top 4 IPA Brands In India In 2023 - 2024

India Pale Ale (IPA) was not crafted for Indians but for the British colonists in India during the colonial era. British colonists received their beer rations directly from England, but the extended sea voyage led to significant spoilage. In response, brewers experimented with various ingredients, eventually focusing on two elements already present in beer: hops, the flavoring agents, and alcohol, a byproduct of fermentation. By creating a more alcoholic beer with intensified hopping, the brewers produced a beverage that, when it reached India, not only avoided spoilage but also possessed enhanced aroma and bitterness. This led to the creation of India Pale Ale (IPA), a beer that gained favor among soldiers stationed in India.

Over the past decade, IPAs have gained popularity in India, primarily fueled by the burgeoning craft beer scene. Notably, Kimaya Brewing Co, based in Pune, introduced 'IPA Divas by the Pune Beer Mandal' (translated from Marathi as 'IPA Day by the Pune Beer Association'), underlining the growing enthusiasm for this beer category. Despite its increasing popularity, IPA may not cater to every palate, especially in India, where the bitterness can be a hurdle. Many brewers adjust the International Bittering Units (IBU) to keep bitterness relatively low. Consequently, IPAs have flourished, and they are now available in bottles, making them accessible to those without brew pubs in their vicinity.

Here are four Indian IPA brands:

1. Bira IPA: 

Crafted with pomelo, this Bira IPA offers a blend of barley and wheat, flavored with Citra and Mosaic hops, resulting in a zestful and citrusy profile.

2. White Rhino: 

With a controlled bitterness at 40 IBU, White Rhino employs Ahtahnum, Cascade, Mosaic, and Styrian Goldings hops in their brew.

3. Arbor Beach Shack IPA: 

Described as a session IPA with lower alcohol content at 6, this brew, featuring Citra and Centennial hops, delivers a compelling aromatic experience.

4. Eight Finger Eddie by Goa Brewing Co: 

This IPA, with 30 UBU, represents a successful venture as the flagship product of Goa Brewing Co. It offers a pleasantly easy-drinking experience with delightful aromas.

5. Hoppy Feet by Briggs Brewery: 

A recent addition to the bottled craft beer segment in India, this American IPA, brewed in Bengaluru, is now available in the city's retail outlets.