When it comes to drinking fallBeer drinkers often choose Heating beer. And while this usually means stout, portersScotch Alice, and other, darker varieties, can also mean Investment Promotion Agencies. But not the traditional West Coast or foggy IPAs. We’re talking about bold IPAs, high ABV, empire-type (by quote Spinal tap) that was triggered “up to eleven”. These double or triple IPAs feature elevated hops aroma, great flavors and high alcohol content to match.
Ryan Pachmayer, president of the brewery at Yak & Yeti Brewpub in Arvada, CO, believes the style is the perfect fall beer for several reasons. “A little extra alcohol can really bring your IPA flat on its own when you get close to 8% ABV — and beyond,” he says. “For imperial IPAs higher than ABV, the depth from the extra malt can be very interesting, and many of the better versions almost approximate that of American barley.”
With the weather turning and the sun setting early, cooler evenings often call for a stronger nightcap. “While imperial malt, Belgian quatrefoil, and English malt are all great options, sometimes you’ll want hops front and center in a big brew,” Bachmaier adds. “On those nights, a DIPA sniff is a great option.”
Lucky for you, there are countless Imperial IPAs on the market, and many of them are very suitable to drink in the fall. Here are ten of our favorites—some more malty, banded, or more fuzzy—but they’re all bold and warm enough for a quality autumnal drink.
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