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Beer Styles

Specialty IPA

Includes styles such as Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA and New England IPA.

Reviewed by , Drinks Editor
IPAAleAle • IPA3–8.5% ABVmedium bodymedium-high bitterness

Is this for me?

Choose this if…

  • You enjoy hoppy, bitter beers with citrus or resinous character.

Skip if…

  • You prefer malty, soft or low-bitterness beers.

What is Specialty IPA?

A type of India Pale Ale that is made using unique or experimental ingredients or brewing techniques, such as Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, and New England IPA.

Best For

Hop loversIPA fansAleAle • IPA

Food Pairings

WingsBurgersFried ChickenSpicy FoodTacos

Taste & Style

medium-high bitternessmedium bodyCitrusTropical FruitHoppySweetIPA

Flavour profile

Citrus(medium)Tropical Fruit(high)Hoppy(high)Sweet(low)

Food pairings

Best for

Frequently asked questions

What is Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA)?
A type of India Pale Ale that is made using unique or experimental ingredients or brewing techniques, such as Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, and New England IPA.
What does Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA) taste like?
Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA) is often described as Citrus, Tropical Fruit, Hoppy, Sweet. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and brewery.
What foods pair with Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA)?
Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA) pairs well with Wings, Burgers, Fried Chicken, Spicy Food. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
How strong is Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA)?
Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA) typically has an ABV of 3–8.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 90–320. Strength and calorie content vary by producer and batch.
When should I enjoy Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA)?
Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA) suits casual social occasions, food pairings and sessions where you want a flavourful but approachable beer. The style profile makes it versatile across a range of settings.
What beers are similar to Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA)?
If you enjoy Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA), explore other beer styles with a similar bitterness and body rating using the sensory bars as a guide. Styles with a matching profile score will feel closest in character.
What are some popular examples of Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA)?
Many breweries produce Specialty IPA (e.g. Milkshake IPA, Brut IPA, New England IPA) across different regions. Seek out local craft examples for fresh flavour, or look for well-reviewed commercial options widely available in bottle shops and pubs.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare beer styles at a glance.
How do I use the sensory profile to find beers I like?
If you like hoppy beers look for High Bitterness. For smooth, easy-drinking beers choose Soft Bitterness and Light Body. Use the Beginner-Friendly rating to find beers that match your experience level.

Style information is approximate and can vary by producer, region and recipe.