India Pale Ale
From Beer
India Pale Ale, commonly known as an IPA, is characterized as a sparkling pale ale with a slightly higher level of alcohol and hops than a typical Pale Ale; the hops lend it a distinct bitterness.
[edit] Origin
In the 1700s, during the long voyage around the Cape of Good Hope to India, beer did not fare well. Without refrigeration and pasteurization, beer would arrive in India flat and sour.
George Hodgson at the Bow Brewery in East London took his pale ale recipe, increased the hop content considerably, and raised the alcohol content. The result was a very bitter, alcoholic, and sparkling pale ale that could survive the challenges of travel and shelf life in India.
