IPA and Pale Ale beers are among the most popular styles in modern craft brewing, loved for their variety, hop character and ability to showcase different brewing techniques. From balanced Pale Ales to bold Double IPAs, this category offers something for every type of craft beer drinker.
At TheCru.ie, our IPA selection includes beers from independent Irish breweries and international craft producers, allowing customers to explore different interpretations of India Pale Ale, Craft IPA and hop-forward beer styles.
The world of IPA continues to evolve, with breweries experimenting with new hop varieties, brewing methods and flavour profiles. Whether you prefer tropical Hazy IPA styles, classic American IPA bitterness or an approachable Pale Ale, understanding the differences between styles makes it easier to find your perfect beer.
What Is IPA Beer?
IPA stands for India Pale Ale, one of the most recognised styles in craft beer. Originally developed from traditional pale ale brewing, IPA became known for its increased hop character, creating beers with more pronounced aromas, flavours and bitterness.
Today, IPA Beer covers a wide range of styles. While hops remain the defining feature, modern brewers create very different experiences depending on the hop varieties used, alcohol strength and brewing approach.
A Craft IPA may showcase:
- citrus flavours
- tropical fruit aromas
- pine-like hop character
- floral notes
- balanced bitterness
- bold hop intensity
This variety is what makes IPA such an exciting category for craft beer fans. A Hazy IPA can offer a completely different experience from an American IPA or Double IPA, even though they share the same foundation.
Discover Hazy IPA & New England IPA
Hazy IPA, also known as New England IPA or NEIPA, is one of the most popular modern IPA styles.
Unlike traditional IPA styles that often focus heavily on bitterness, Hazy IPA places more emphasis on:
- expressive hop aromas
- juicy fruit character
- tropical flavours
- smooth mouthfeel
- softer bitterness
New England IPA is often recognised by its cloudy appearance and rounded drinking experience. Brewers use carefully selected hops to create beers that showcase aroma and flavour while maintaining a smooth finish.
For customers who enjoy modern hop-forward beers, Hazy IPA is an excellent place to start.
Explore examples of modern Hazy IPA styles such as Wicklow Wolf Petrichor Hazy IPA and discover more hop-forward beers through our IPA & Pale Ale collection.
Discover American IPA
American IPA is one of the most influential styles in the modern craft beer movement.
Known for its bold hop character, American IPA typically showcases:
- citrus flavours
- pine notes
- New World hops
- confident bitterness
- expressive aromas
This style is ideal for drinkers who enjoy a more traditional hop-forward IPA experience, where the flavour and character of the hops take centre stage.
International breweries have helped shape the popularity of American IPA, inspiring craft brewers worldwide to experiment with new hop varieties and brewing techniques.
For fans of bold IPA character, explore beers such as Northern Monk Beyond // Bold New World IPA and discover more Craft IPA styles available at TheCru.ie.
Double IPA & DIPA
For experienced craft beer drinkers looking for a more intense IPA experience, Double IPA, also known as DIPA, offers increased strength and hop character.
Compared with standard IPA styles, Double IPAs typically feature:
- higher ABV
- stronger hop intensity
- richer flavour
- more pronounced bitterness
DIPA beers showcase the creativity and technical skill of modern brewers, balancing stronger alcohol levels with carefully selected hops to create a full-flavoured drinking experience.
These beers are often chosen by dedicated craft beer enthusiasts who enjoy exploring the stronger side of IPA brewing.
Pale Ale – A Great Introduction To Craft Beer
While Pale Ale is closely related to IPA, it generally offers a more balanced and approachable drinking experience.
Pale Ales are often characterised by:
- moderate hop character
- balanced bitterness
- refreshing finishes
- easy-drinking styles
For customers new to craft beer, Pale Ale can be an excellent starting point before exploring stronger IPA styles.
The relationship between IPA and Pale Ale is an important part of craft beer history. Both styles celebrate hops, but Pale Ale often focuses on balance, while IPA typically pushes hop expression further.
Explore more Pale Ale and IPA options through our Craft Beer collection.
Explore Irish & International IPA Breweries
One of the best ways to discover IPA Beer Ireland is by exploring the breweries creating these beers.
Ireland has a thriving independent craft beer scene, with breweries producing everything from modern Hazy IPAs and New England IPAs to classic Pale Ales and bold American-inspired IPAs.
At TheCru.ie, we stock beers from a range of Irish and international breweries, including:
Each brewery brings its own approach to hops, ingredients and brewing techniques, creating different interpretations of IPA and Pale Ale styles.
How To Choose An IPA
With so many IPA styles available, choosing the right beer depends on the flavours and experience you enjoy.
If You Like Juicy, Tropical Flavours
Choose:
- Hazy IPA
- New England IPA
- NEIPA
These styles focus on aromatic hops, tropical fruit character and softer bitterness.
If You Like Bold Hop Character
Choose:
These beers typically offer stronger citrus flavours, pine notes and classic hop intensity.
If You Prefer Balance
Choose:
A great option for customers who enjoy refreshing beers with approachable flavour.
If You Want Something Stronger
Choose:
Ideal for experienced craft beer drinkers looking for a bigger IPA experience.
Discover New IPA Releases
Craft beer is constantly changing, with breweries regularly releasing seasonal beers, collaborations and limited-edition releases.
Our IPA and Pale Ale range is updated regularly with new Irish and international craft beers, giving customers the opportunity to discover new breweries and styles.
Explore the latest additions through our New Craft Beer Arrivals section.
Why Buy IPA Beer From TheCru.ie?
TheCru.ie is a specialist Irish craft beer retailer, bringing together independent breweries, international producers and exciting new releases in one online destination.
Customers can:
- Buy IPA online Ireland
- Discover Irish Craft IPA
- Explore Hazy IPA, NEIPA, American IPA and DIPA styles
- Find beers from independent breweries
- Enjoy craft beer delivery across Ireland
Whether you are searching for your first Pale Ale, exploring modern Hazy IPA styles or looking for a bold American IPA, TheCru.ie makes discovering great craft beer simple.
IPA & Pale Ale FAQs
What is IPA beer and why is it popular?
IPA, or India Pale Ale, is popular because it allows brewers to showcase hop flavours, aromas and different brewing techniques. It is one of the most diverse craft beer styles available.
What is the difference between IPA and Pale Ale?
Pale Ale is generally lighter and more balanced, while IPA usually features stronger hop character and bitterness.
What is a Hazy IPA?
A Hazy IPA is a modern IPA style known for its cloudy appearance, aromatic hops, juicy flavours and softer bitterness.
What is a New England IPA?
New England IPA, or NEIPA, is a style of Hazy IPA focused on hop aroma, tropical flavours and a smooth mouthfeel.
What is an American IPA?
American IPA is a hop-forward style known for citrus flavours, pine notes and New World hop character.
Are all IPAs bitter?
No. While traditional IPAs are known for bitterness, modern styles such as Hazy IPA and NEIPA often focus more on aroma and flavour with softer bitterness.
What IPA should beginners try?
Pale Ale and softer Hazy IPA styles are often good starting points for customers new to craft beer.
Can I buy IPA beer online in Ireland?
Yes. TheCru.ie offers a wide selection of IPA Beer Ireland customers can order online with delivery throughout Ireland.