Organic Beer: Is Ipa The Healthier Choice?

The Peak Organic Brewing Company, based in Maine, USA, produces an organic India Pale Ale (IPA) that showcases Simcoe, Amarillo, and Nugget hops. This combination of hops gives the beer a strong hop flavor and aroma, with citrus and floral notes. The Peak Organic IPA is best paired with curried dishes, Thai cuisine featuring shellfish, and peppery or sharp cheeses. It has an ABV of around 7%. Another company, Small Beer, also produces an organic IPA with English hops grown in the Worcestershire countryside, delivering marmalade bitterness and a floral aroma.

Peak Organic Brewing Co. uses Simcoe, Amarillo, and Nugget hops for its IPA

India Pale Ales, or IPAs, can be organic beers. For example, Small Beer offers an Organic IPA, which is gluten-free and brewed with English hops. Peak Organic Brewing Co. also offers an organic IPA, which is brewed with Simcoe, Amarillo, and Nugget hops.

Simcoe hops, also known as YCR 14, were released in 2000 by Select Botanicals Group. With alpha acid levels ranging from 12% to 14%, Simcoe hops have excellent bittering qualities. They also offer a complex aroma of stone fruit, pine, and citrus zest, with a passionfruit, pine resin, apricot, and fruity flavour. Simcoe hops are one of the most popular varieties for craft beer and homebrewing.

Amarillo hops, or AMARILLO® VGXP01 c.v., were developed by Virgil Gamache Farms in the Yakima Valley. With alpha acids ranging from 9% to 11%, these hops provide solid bittering properties. Amarillo hops have a very sweet citrus flavour and aroma, leaning more towards oranges than grapefruit. They also feature light floral notes, as well as melon and peach flavours. Amarillo hops are extremely resistant to mildew and are among the top 10 most widely used hops.

Nugget hops were bred by the USDA and were first commercially harvested in 1983. They are commonly used in many American-style beers, including IPAs, stouts, and barleywines. Nugget hops have high alpha acid levels, ranging from 11% to 16%, and are primarily used for bittering. However, some breweries also use them for aroma and flavour. These hops have a high myrcene oil content, which lends a woody and piney character.

By using Simcoe, Amarillo, and Nugget hops, Peak Organic Brewing Co. can create an organic IPA with a unique blend of flavours and aromas. The Simcoe hops contribute a bitter, fruity, and resinous character, while the Amarillo hops add a sweet citrus and floral touch. Meanwhile, the Nugget hops enhance the bitterness and provide a woody and piney profile. The combination of these hops results in a complex and flavourful organic IPA.

The beer has an ABV of 7% to 7.2%

A quick online search reveals that there are indeed IPAs (India Pale Ales) that are marketed as organic beers. When it comes to alcohol content, these organic IPAs typically fall within the range of 7% to 7.2% ABV (alcohol by volume). This percentage indicates the volume of ethanol present in the beer, representing a significant, but not excessive, amount of alcohol. With this ABV range, the beer strikes a balance between being sessionable and packing a decent punch.

An ABV of 7% to 7.2% is considered on the higher end for typical beers, which often range from 4% to 6% ABV. This slightly higher alcohol content contributes to a more full-bodied and robust flavor profile. The extra alcohol also provides a warmer sensation, making it an ideal choice for cooler weather or when seeking a heartier drinking experience. However, it's important to note that the higher ABV also means drinkers may feel the effects of the alcohol more quickly and intensely.

Within the spectrum of IPAs, an ABV of 7% to 7.2% is relatively standard. IPAs are known for their strong, assertive hop presence, and a slightly higher alcohol content helps to balance the bitterness and robust flavors of the hops. This ABV range provides a solid foundation for the complex flavors of an IPA, ensuring that the beer is flavorful without being overly intense or harsh. The slight variation in ABV between 7% and 7.2% may reflect subtle differences in the brewing process or the specific ingredients used, resulting in unique flavor profiles and drinking experiences.

When considering an IPA with an ABV of 7% to 7.2%, it's important to keep in mind that a little goes a long way. The higher alcohol content means that drinkers may want to pace themselves and enjoy the beer slowly. This ABV range also makes the beer quite versatile when it comes to food pairings. The robust flavor can stand up to spicy dishes, strong cheeses, and grilled meats, while the slight warmth from the alcohol can complement chillier evenings or heartier meals. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, an organic IPA with an ABV of 7% to 7.2% offers a well-rounded and satisfying drinking experience.

It is best paired with curried dishes, Thai cuisine, and peppery or sharp cheeses

India Pale Ale (IPA) is a bitter, hoppy beer that is best paired with strong-flavoured dishes to avoid being overwhelmed by the beer's taste. The bitterness of an IPA can also help to cool down spicy dishes, making it a great pairing with curries and Thai cuisine.

The carbonation in IPAs helps to cut through fatty, creamy, and rich dishes, acting as a refreshing palate cleanser. This makes it a good choice for heavy, fatty foods such as sausage, deep-fried meats, or French fries. The saltiness of these dishes can also help to tone down the bitterness of the beer.

When it comes to cheese, IPAs pair well with sharp and peppery varieties. The carbonation and bitterness of the beer can cut through the richness of cheeses like cheddar or gorgonzola, while the sharpness of the cheese can stand up to the strong flavours of the IPA.

Some specific examples of IPA and food pairings include:

• IPA with a French cassoulet or a spicy sausage calzone
• English IPA with a Madras curry
• American-style IPA with Chicken Korma
• IPA with grilled meats, such as burgers or steaks

So, if you're looking to pair an IPA with food, consider curried dishes, Thai cuisine, or sharp cheeses. The bitterness and carbonation of the beer will complement and refresh your palate, while the strong flavours of the dish will hold their own against the bold taste of the IPA.

The beer has an amber colour with a white head and features citrus and floral notes

The appearance of a beer is one of the first things that attracts consumers. The beer's amber colour with a white head is an indication of its rich flavour and smooth finish. The amber hue, ranging from golden to reddish-brown, is often a result of the malt used in the brewing process, contributing to a caramel or toasty flavour profile. This colour is also associated with American Amber Ales, which are known for their moderate strength and balanced or bitter taste.

The white head, formed by carbonation and proteins in the beer, indicates a moderate level of carbonation and a smooth, creamy texture. It also suggests a healthy level of lacing, which refers to the foam left on the glass as the beer is consumed, adding to the overall presentation and experience of drinking the beer.

The citrus and floral notes in the beer's aroma and flavour are derived from the hops used in the brewing process. Citrus characteristics can include orange, grapefruit, tangerine, and lime, adding a refreshing and zesty dimension to the beer. Floral notes, on the other hand, contribute a delicate and fragrant quality, often described as hoppy or spicy. These notes are also reflected in the flavour of the beer, creating a well-rounded and harmonious taste experience.

The combination of amber colour, white head, and citrus and floral notes indicates a carefully crafted beer with a complex and enticing profile. The colour and head suggest a balanced and smooth beer, while the citrus and floral notes add a layer of freshness and aroma. This description showcases the beer's attention to detail and its ability to engage multiple senses, making it a captivating choice for consumers seeking a unique and memorable drinking experience.

It is brewed in Maine, United States

The Peak Organic Brewing Company, based in Maine, United States, brews an organic IPA. This unique India Pale Ale features a selection of their favourite hops, including Simcoe, Amarillo and Nugget. The Peak IPA has an assertive, hop-forward nose and front palate, with stimulating citrus and floral characteristics. It is brewed without the use of traditional bittering hops, resulting in a refreshing and well-rated beer.

The Maine Beer Company, also based in Maine, is known for its IPAs, pale ales, and commitment to the environment. Although it is not explicitly stated that their beers are organic, the company was founded with a purpose to "do good through great beer" and their motto "do what's right" guides every decision they make.

In addition to these breweries, Maine is home to numerous other craft breweries that offer a wide range of beer styles, including IPAs. Some of the top-rated IPAs from Maine, according to BeerAdvocate, include the Dinner Imperial IPA from Maine Beer Company, Swish New England IPA from Bissell Brothers Brewing Co., and Coolship Red Fruit Lambic from Allagash Brewing Company.

While not all IPAs from Maine may be organic, the state boasts a thriving craft beer scene with a variety of options for beer enthusiasts to explore.

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