IPA vs Lager: Understanding Beer Styles

Beer is one of the oldest and most widely consumed beverages in the world, and its diversity makes it a favorite for casual drinkers and enthusiasts alike. From light, crisp sips to bold, hoppy pours, beer offers something for everyone. Two of the most common styles that often spark curiosity and debate are the IPA and the Lager.

Both styles are popular in the United States and beyond, but they differ significantly in brewing methods, flavors, and drinking experiences. Whether you're new to craft brews or a seasoned connoisseur, exploring the options at our liquor store can help you find the perfect IPA or Lager to match your taste. Understanding the nuances of these beer types helps you not only appreciate their history but also choose the right beer for the right occasion.

What is an IPA?

The IPA beer is a style of brew known for its strong hop character and bold flavors. This style has become especially popular in the craft beer movement, where brewers experiment with different hops and brewing techniques to create unique IPA beers with distinct personalities.

Origin and Evolution of the IPA

The origins of the IPA trace back to 18th-century England. Brewers developed this style when exporting beer to British colonies in India. To preserve the beer during the long journey, extra hops were added, as hops act as a natural preservative. This gave the beer a distinctive, bitter edge that has since become the hallmark of the style.

Over time, IPAs evolved. In the United States, craft brewers took the style to new heights, experimenting with hop varieties from the Pacific Northwest. This led to American IPAs, Double IPAs, and New England IPAs (NEIPAs), each offering different balances of bitterness, aroma, and body.

Common Flavor Notes in IPAs

IPAs are celebrated for their bold and aromatic flavors, but the exact taste can vary widely depending on hop selection and brewing techniques. Common flavor notes include:

• Citrus (grapefruit, orange, lemon zest)

• Pine and resin

• Tropical fruits (mango, passionfruit, pineapple)

• Herbal and floral undertones

• Bitterness ranging from moderate to intense

IPAs often have a higher alcohol content compared to lighter beers, making them a choice for drinkers who enjoy complexity and intensity.

What is a Lager?

In contrast to the hop-forward IPA, the Lager is known for its clean, smooth, and approachable character. Lagers are among the most widely consumed beers globally, thanks to their easy-drinking nature.

Brewing Process Behind Lagers

The key difference in lager style beer production lies in the fermentation process. Lagers are brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast at cooler temperatures, usually between 35–50°F. This slower, colder fermentation results in a cleaner, crisper flavor profile that emphasizes refreshment.

Lagers typically require more time to brew compared to sales, as they undergo a longer conditioning phase known as lagering, which refines their smoothness and clarity. This extended process helps mellow harsh flavors, enhances drinkability, and creates the balanced taste that makes Lagers so popular worldwide.

Typical Flavor Characteristics of Lagers

Unlike the hop-forward IPA, Lagers emphasize balance and drinkability. Common characteristics include:

• Light malt sweetness

• Notes of bread, biscuit, or cereal grains

• Subtle floral or herbal hops

• Crisp, clean finish

• Refreshing carbonation

While many people associate Lagers with lighter beers, there are many substyles, including Pilsners, Helles, Dunkels, and Bocks, which showcase different strengths of malt and hops.

Side-by-Side Comparison

IPAs and Lagers are two distinct beer families that appeal to different drinkers. Knowing how they differ helps you make informed choices depending on your mood, meal, or occasion.

Strengths of IPAs for Enthusiasts

• Bold Flavors: Ideal for drinkers who appreciate intensity and variety.

• Creative Variations: Craft brewers frequently innovate with hop blends, making IPAs a playground for experimentation.

• Complex Aromas: IPAs often have layered notes of fruit, pine, and herbs that evolve as the beer warms.

• Higher ABV Options: Double or Imperial IPAs provide a stronger drinking experience.

Why Many Beginners Prefer Lagers

• Easy Drinking: Crisp and clean flavors make Lagers approachable for new beer drinkers.

• Lower Bitterness: Less hop intensity compared to IPAs appeals to palates that prefer subtlety.

• Versatility: Lagers pair well with a wide range of foods and occasions.

• Familiarity: Popular brands often introduce drinkers to beer through Lager styles.

For broader insights into choosing beers for different events and occasions, consider the flavor, style, and atmosphere you want to create when selecting between IPAs and Lagers.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Food pairing can elevate your craft beer experience, as certain dishes highlight and balance the unique characteristics of each style.

Best Foods with IPAs

• Spicy Dishes: IPAs balance heat from curries, tacos, or buffalo wings.

• Grilled Meats: Bold flavors match charred or smoky barbecue.

• Cheese Pairings: Strong cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar complement IPA bitterness.

• Seafood: Try IPAs with fried calamari, shrimp, or fish tacos for a zesty contrast.

Best Foods with Lagers

• Classic Pairings: Burgers, hot dogs, and pizza shine with a crisp Lager.

• Fried Foods: Lagers cut through oiliness in fried chicken, onion rings, or tempura.

• Lighter Fare: Salads, grilled vegetables, and simple sandwiches balance perfectly with Lager’s subtle character.

• Global Cuisine: Lagers are often paired with Asian and Central European dishes due to their refreshing finish.

Closing Toast: Picking the Perfect Pour for You

Choosing between an IPA and a Lager ultimately depends on your personal taste and the occasion. If you enjoy bold, hop-forward flavors with complex aromas, an IPA may be your perfect match. If you prefer crisp, smooth, and refreshing beers that go well with almost any food, then a Lager is a better fit.

Both styles have their place in a well-rounded beer experience. Exploring them side by side not only deepens your appreciation for brewing traditions but also helps you find your signature pour.

To continue your journey, browse All Beer or explore by type in the IPA section and Lager section to discover more options. Ready to explore the world of IPAs and Lagers? Visit our store at Uncork It in Chicago to discover a wide selection of beers curated for every taste and occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)