what is a double ipa

A Double IPA, also known as an Imperial IPA, is a hopped-up version of an IPA that features extra hops and malt, resulting in a more intense hop flavor and aroma, and a higher alcohol content than a standard IPA. The added layering of hops promotes more bitterness, while the extra malt provides a more distinct toasted or caramel malt flavor. When more malt is added, the yeast has more sugar to convert to alcohol, so you end up with a stronger brew. Generally, a Double IPA should be hop-centric and assertive both in aroma and flavor, and have a higher alcohol content than a standard IPA, achieved by adding more malt. The Brewers Association defines a Double IPA as an IPA with an ABV (alcohol by volume) between 7.6%-10.6% . Double IPAs can resemble everything from a Pale Ale to a Barleywine, reserved International Bitterness Units (IBU) to hundreds, from pale to black in color.