One of the most recognized and largest of the major ale styles, Pale Ales are called so for the pale barley malt used in brewing as well as the pale color of the finished beer. Strengths vary from 3% ABV (Alcohol By Volume) to over 5%, and up to 12% in some. Hop levels in pale ales can vary greatly. With its very high hop content, India Pale Ales (IPA) were originally brewed to survive the journey from England to its colonies in Asia, but the term may be used today to indicate a beer that is extremely hop-bitter, and full bodied. Other sub-styles of pale ale include Amber Ales, Irish Red Ales, English Bitters and American Pale Ales.

Our pick – Harpoon IPA, Boston, MA

Harpoon IPA - The Flagship

Harpoon IPA makes up 2/3 of all the beer the company sells and with great reason...it is an extremely well crafted beer with excellent hop flavor that American beer drinkers have come to love. Much more on this beer's history, what exactly constitutes an IPA, and what hops are all about in this segment with Harpoon's Chris Ahearn.