Here are my entries for the Best India Pale Ale in the United States. One from the west coast and one from the east coast. I honestly can’t decided between the two of them but I do love that “Citrus” hop burst that The Grapefruit Sculpin delivers. I used to think that IPAs were just a summer drink and I would go to darker beers in the winter. But, these days, I’m enjoying IPAs throughout the whole year. This type of beer has really exploded on popularity in the past couple years and we are now being offered all sorts of options. I am also enjoying “session” IPAs. You still get that strong hop kick but without that high ABV that sometimes gets in the way of us older guys on “school nights?”
India Pale Ale #1
I generally think that Dogfish Head is overrated but the 60 Minute India Pale Ale is the real deal. I know that they have the 90 minute and 120 minute and those are super-intense beers. But man… they are really expensive and strong. The 60 minute is done just right. I have seen a Dogfish Head beer called the Worldwide Stout at my local beer store. It is about $35 for a 4 pack? I haven’t tried this one yet but must admit that I am curious.
India Pale Ale #2
Ballast Point is often pretty pricey when compared to other beers, at least it here in the midwest. And some of their beers tend to get a little “out there” for me. But the Grapefruit Sculpin is an unbelievable India Pale Ale. Don’t let the fruit in the title throw you off. It is not a “fruity” beer at all. As some of us hop fans know, a lot of hops have a natural citrus smell and flavor to them. It makes for a very crisp and refreshing beer and if you see this in the store, grab a six pack without hesitation.
Don’t get me wrong, there are times when I want a really strong, dark beer, but when the sun is out and the warm weather comes calling, it is an India Pale Ale for me. If you find either of these two on the shelves in the store, you can’t go wrong with either of them.
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