As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, there’s no better way to enjoy the summer season than with a refreshing IPA in hand. The rise of IPAs (India Pale Ales) has been nothing short of phenomenal, making them the go-to choice for summer drinkers seeking bold flavors and unique profiles. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of IPAs, explore various types, highlight must-try summer beers, and provide tips on pairing IPAs with summer foods. Here are our top 5 best Summer IPAs to try!

The Rising Popularity of IPAs: Perfect for Summer

IPAs have become synonymous with craft beer culture, capturing the hearts and palates of beer enthusiasts around the globe. Their popularity continues to surge, particularly during the summer months when their hoppy, aromatic profiles offer a refreshing escape from the heat. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a backyard barbecue, or exploring new trails, an IPA is the perfect companion to elevate your summer experience.

Exploring 3 Different Types of IPAs

To truly appreciate the diversity and creativity within the IPA category, it’s essential to understand the different types available. Each type offers a unique twist on the classic IPA flavor profile, making it easier to find the perfect brew for your summer adventures.

Session IPAs

Session IPAs are designed for prolonged enjoyment without overwhelming your senses. With lower alcohol content (typically around 3-5%), they provide the hoppy goodness of a traditional IPA while allowing you to savor more than one. These light and crisp brews are ideal for a day at the beach or a casual hangout with friends.

Double IPAs (DIPAs)

Double IPAs, also known as Imperial IPAs, pack a punch with higher alcohol content (usually between 7-10%) and intensified hop flavors. These brews are bold, rich, and often feature a balanced malt backbone to complement the hop bitterness. Double IPAs are perfect for those seeking a more robust IPA experience during summer evenings.

Hazy IPAs

Hazy IPAs, also known as New England IPAs, have taken the craft beer scene by storm. These unfiltered brews boast a cloudy appearance and are known for their juicy, tropical flavors with low bitterness. The soft, pillowy mouthfeel makes Hazy IPAs a popular choice for summer, as they deliver a burst of fruity refreshment with every sip.

Top 5 Best Summer IPAs to Try

Experience the taste of summer with these must-try IPAs. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a barbecue, or simply enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, these IPAs bring a splash of citrus, tropical fruit, and a hint of bitterness to elevate your summer drinking experience.

With so many incredible IPAs available, narrowing down the choices can be challenging. Here are our top five recommendations, each offering a unique flavor profile and brewing excellence.

1. Beezer from Old Irving Brewing Co. (Chicago)

This hazy IPA is a gold medalist at the World Beer Cup in 2024, and for good reason. It features Citra and Mosaic hops, giving it a 6.9% ABV and 45 IBU. Expect massive hop aroma, a soft mouthfeel, and bright, juicy tropical flavors. Although it’s not available for nationwide shipping, it’s worth seeking out in Chicago. ADD to CART – Try it here!

2. Art Isn’t Real by MadeWest Brewing Co. (Ventura, CA)

Picked up the silver medal at the 2024 World Beer Cup! Inspired by a spirit of adventure, this 7.2% ABV hazy IPA is bursting with tropical fruit flavors and a nice soft body. With Sultana, Simcoe, HBC 586, and HBC 630 Citra hops, this brew hits all the right notes. MadeWest beers can be shipped directly to your house if you live in California.

3. King Lupu’s Happy Juice by Project 9 Brewing Co. (Seattle)

Named after the brewery’s unofficial mascot, this 7.5% ABV IPA features a combination of classic and experimental hops. Expect a bold, fruity, and slightly resinous character that pairs perfectly with summer activities. King Lupu’s Happy Juice embodies the creativity and innovation of Seattle’s craft beer scene. Picked up bronze at the 2024 World Beer Cup.

4. Three Floyds Zombie Dust (Munster, IN)

A single-hop pale ale showcasing Citra hops, Zombie Dust is revered for its intense hop aroma and balanced bitterness. At 6.2% ABV, this brew delivers a citrusy punch with notes of tropical fruit and pine, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings. ADD TO CART – Try it here!

5. Bell’s Two Hearted Ale (Kalamazoo, MI)

An iconic IPA crafted with 100% Centennial hops, Bell’s Two Hearted Ale offers a perfect blend of pine and grapefruit aromas. Its 7% ABV and balanced malt profile provide a satisfying and refreshing experience, ideal for enjoying the great outdoors. ADD TO CART – Try it here!

Pairing IPAs with Summer Foods

One of the joys of summer is indulging in delicious seasonal foods, and IPAs make fantastic companions for a variety of dishes. Here are some tips on how to pair IPAs with summer fare to enhance your overall experience:

Grilled Meats: Pair a bold double IPA with grilled steaks or burgers to complement the smoky flavors and rich char.
Seafood: Hazy IPAs’ juicy and tropical notes are perfect for fresh seafood dishes like shrimp tacos or grilled fish.
Spicy Foods: The hop bitterness of a session IPA can help balance the heat of spicy dishes like buffalo wings or spicy barbecue ribs.
Salads: A crisp and light session IPA pairs well with fresh summer salads, enhancing the flavors of herbs and citrus dressings.
Cheese: Serve a variety of cheeses with an assortment of IPAs to discover delightful flavor combinations. A sharp cheddar pairs beautifully with a hop-forward IPA, while a creamy brie complements the fruity notes of a hazy IPA.

Supporting Local Breweries and Upcoming IPA Festivals

Summer is the perfect time to support local breweries and explore the vibrant craft beer community. By choosing locally brewed IPAs, you not only enjoy fresh and unique flavors but also contribute to the growth of small businesses in your area. Many local breweries offer events, tastings, and tours, providing an opportunity to connect with fellow beer enthusiasts and learn more about the brewing process.

Local Craft Breweries in St. Louis:

Upcoming IPA Festivals and Events

Attending IPA festivals and events is a fantastic way to discover new brews and immerse yourself in the craft beer culture. Keep an eye out for these upcoming events:

Great American Beer Festival (Denver, CO): This prestigious event showcases a wide range of IPAs from across the country, offering tastings, competitions, and educational sessions.
IPA Day (First Thursday in August): Celebrated globally, IPA Day is the perfect occasion to explore new IPAs, visit local breweries, and join in the festivities with fellow beer lovers.
Local Craft Beer Fairs: Many cities host annual craft beer fairs and festivals, featuring local breweries and their finest IPAs. Check your city’s event calendar for upcoming dates.

Follow Best Beer Festivals for current dates here!

Conclusion: TOP Your IPA Favorites

As you dive into your summer IPA adventure, we invite you to pick up your favorite brews at Top Shelf in Effingham! Let’s celebrate the vibrant and diverse world of IPAs together, supporting local breweries and making our summer experiences even better.

Raise a glass to the ultimate summer companion—refreshing, flavorful IPAs from Top Shelf. Cheers!

Welcome to Top Shelf, where your liquor shopping journey becomes a personalized adventure, blending small-town warmth with big-city selection.

For liquor enthusiasts who crave a personalized and enriching shopping experience, Top Shelf provides a unique blend of small-town compassion and big-city selection. Unlike impersonal big-box stores, we value each customer, offering expert education and a vast range of products because we believe in transforming transactions into lifelong partnerships built on respect, knowledge, and mutual growth.

Plus, our online ordering and drive-thru service makes picking up your order quick and easy.

SHOP ONLINE HERE!

Sunshine in a Glass: 5 Best Summer IPAs To Try

Table of Contents