Good People Drink Good Beer-- Hunter S. Thompson

I love a really good IPA.  India Pale Ale is a type of ale that is light amber to copper in colour with a medium to medium high alcohol content and a pronounced hoppy, some what bitter flavour.  Originally developed in the late 1700's, British breweries would send beer via sail to the troops and British expatriots in India. Problem was, there was no refrigeration and the ocean voyage took nearly five months. As a result, the beer would usually arrive in compromised condition. Well, the brewers of the time didn't know as much about beer as we do today, but they did know that both hops (where we get the bitterness in beer) and alcohol act as natural preservatives. So, they came up with a brew that was intensely hopped and rather high in alcohol --- thus the birth of the "India Pale Ale." Two of my favourites at Sierra Nevada Torpedo Extra IPA and Snake Dog IPA by Flying Dog.

Both of these IPAs are around 7% but you wouldn't really notice it; a quality I like.  Ales in the 6-8% are some of my favourite as they go down nicely and have the mellow buzz factor.  The Sierra Nevada Torpedo has the slight edge compared to Flying Dog, with the pine and citrus notes pretty well balanced with the hops. I distinctly remember grapefruit in the aftertaste.  The Flying Dog is smoother than I expected. Hops come out with a bit of bite, then quickly back off. The malts are creamy and not too sweet. Not the most complex tastes either, but well balanced and satisfying.  After a 40 mile mountain bike ride, either one of these Ales will satisfy the palette.

   

The intense hop character of India Pale Ale makes it among the driest, yet most appetizing, beers in the world today. That's why it's the perfect choice to team up with many spicy dishes. Indian food is a natural(and historical) pairing, as is Cajun, Thai, or Mexican cuisine.

Try an IPA with a plate of hot Buffalo-style chicken wings or a pepperoni pizza. The choices are endless. But you don't have to limit yourself to spicy foods. IPA is also great with pesto dishes, pork chops, beef, Stilton cheese, or even escargot. And don't forget dessert - you'll be amazed by how well IPA pairs up with a rich carrot cake with a cream cheese frosting.