Few beer styles have become as closely associated with modern craft brewing as the New England IPA. Known for its hazy appearance, tropical hop character, and softer bitterness, the style developed a devoted following throughout New England before spreading far beyond the region. Today, you can find New England IPAs at breweries across the country, but their connection to the region remains strong. So how did this distinctive style become such a major part of the craft beer movement?

A Different Take on the IPA

Traditional IPAs are known for pronounced hop bitterness, but New England brewers began approaching the style differently. Rather than emphasizing bitterness above everything else, brewers focused on creating a softer, fruit-forward beer with aromas and flavors reminiscent of citrus, tropical fruit, and stone fruit.

The appearance became part of the identity, too. New England IPAs are typically hazy rather than clear, thanks to brewing techniques and ingredients that help create their characteristic appearance and mouthfeel.

Hops Became the Star

The style’s evolution was closely tied to changes in how brewers used hops. Instead of adding hops primarily for bitterness early in the brewing process, brewers began emphasizing later additions and dry hopping to draw out more aroma and flavor.

That approach helped create beers that could be intensely aromatic without having the sharp bitterness traditionally associated with many IPAs. It also encouraged brewers to experiment with different hop varieties and combinations, creating an enormous range of flavors within the style.

Why the Style Took Off

The New England IPA’s popularity helped demonstrate just how much room there was for experimentation within craft brewing. Beer drinkers who preferred fruitier, softer flavors suddenly had an IPA style that appealed to them, while experienced beer enthusiasts had countless new variations to explore.

For a local brewery, offering New England IPAs can also be a way to participate in a beer tradition that grew directly out of the region’s craft brewing culture. At Hopothecary Ales, our in-house selection includes hazy and hop-forward New England craft beers alongside a variety of other styles.

Taste a New England Favorite at Hopothecary Ales

If you’ve never explored the style or already know it’s one of your favorites, stop by Hopothecary Ales and see what’s currently available. As a local brewery, we’re always bringing new beers and experiences to our taproom, so there’s always something different to enjoy the next time you visit!

Follow us on Facebook for beer releases, events, specials, and everything happening at Hopothecary Ales!