Best IPAs in Arizona

The best IPAs in Arizona highlight hops through bold aromas, noticeable bitterness and flavors that can range from citrusy and tropical to earthy and pine-forward. IPA stands for India Pale Ale, and today the style includes numerous interpretations. Consequently, ordering an IPA doesn’t always mean receiving an intensely bitter beer. Modern recipes can range from crisp and assertive to aromatic, fruity and surprisingly smooth.

What Does an IPA Taste Like?

IPAs commonly feature grapefruit, orange, pine, tropical fruit, herbs and floral characteristics. However, hop varieties and brewing techniques strongly influence which flavors become prominent. For example, one IPA may emphasize resinous pine and grapefruit, while another showcases mango, peach or passion fruit.

Meanwhile, malt provides the foundation needed to balance the hops. Some IPAs finish dry and crisp, whereas others offer a slightly sweeter malt character. Additionally, bitterness can vary considerably between recipes. This diversity makes IPA a broad category with plenty of room for breweries to create their own interpretation.

Typical IPA ABV

Most standard IPAs range from approximately 5.5% to 7.5% ABV. However, Session IPAs generally fall lower, while Double and Imperial IPAs typically climb higher. Therefore, checking the brewery’s listed ABV helps set expectations for the strength of a particular IPA.

How The Beers Are Ranked

The IPAs below rank based on votes from local beer drinkers.