What Is a DIPA? Double IPA Explained for Beginners

If you’ve browsed the shelves at your local craft beer shop or scrolled through our online selection, you’ve likely come across the term DIPA or Double IPA. It sounds intense, and in many ways it is — but that’s exactly why beer enthusiasts keep coming back. Whether you’re a newcomer to craft beer or a seasoned drinker looking to understand the style better, this guide will break down everything you need to know about Double IPAs.

In simple terms, a Double IPA is a bigger, bolder version of a standard India Pale Ale. It packs more hops, more malt, and a higher alcohol content, all while maintaining a surprisingly drinkable balance. Let’s dive into the details, explore what sets DIPAs apart, and discover some outstanding examples you can try today.

What Exactly Is a Double IPA?

A Double IPA (also called an Imperial IPA) is a beer style that emerged from the American craft beer revolution of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Brewers wanted to push the boundaries of hop flavor and aroma without sacrificing balance. The result is a beer that typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 7.5% to 10% or more, compared to a standard IPA’s 5% to 7% ABV.

The key to a great DIPA lies in its hop profile. Brewers use generous amounts of hops — often double or triple what you’d find in a regular IPA — to deliver intense citrus, pine, tropical fruit, or floral notes. To balance the bitterness and support the higher alcohol content, the malt backbone is also stronger, adding layers of breadiness or light caramel sweetness.

• Higher ABV: Typically 7.5%–10%+
• More hops: Intense aroma and bitterness
• Stronger malt character: Balances the hop punch
• Often unfiltered or hazy: Especially in the New England style

DIPA vs. IPA: What’s the Difference?

The most obvious difference between a DIPA and a standard IPA is the alcohol content. A regular IPA usually sits around 5.5% to 7% ABV, while a Double IPA starts at 7.5% and can climb much higher. But the differences go beyond just numbers. The hop additions in a DIPA are more aggressive, both in the boil (for bitterness) and in dry-hopping (for aroma). This creates a beer that is simultaneously more bitter and more aromatic.

Malt also plays a bigger role in a DIPA. The extra malt sweetness helps to counterbalance the intense hop bitterness, making the beer more rounded and less harsh. That’s why many DIPAs finish with a pleasant malt sweetness rather than a sharp, lingering bitterness. If you’re used to drinking IPAs, a DIPA will feel like turning up the volume on every aspect of the beer.

How to Enjoy a Double IPA

Because of their higher alcohol content and bold flavors, DIPAs are best enjoyed fresh. Hop aromas fade quickly, so look for cans or bottles with a recent packaging date. Serve your DIPA in a tulip or snifter glass at around 10–12°C (50–54°F) to allow the aromas to open up without the alcohol becoming too prominent.

Pairing food with a DIPA is a delight. The hop bitterness cuts through rich, fatty dishes like burgers, fried chicken, or aged cheeses. The tropical fruit notes also complement spicy cuisine, such as Thai or Indian dishes. For a perfect pairing, try a DIPA alongside a sharp cheddar or a smoked brisket.

• Check the packaging date for freshness
• Serve in a tulip glass at 10–12°C
• Pair with rich meats, spicy food, or aged cheese

Must-Try DIPAs from To Øl

At To Øl, we take pride in crafting DIPAs that showcase the best of Danish brewing innovation. One standout is the Party Keg - #DIPA, a bold and juicy double IPA that delivers waves of tropical fruit and a smooth, resinous finish. It’s a perfect entry point for anyone new to the style, with a well-balanced bitterness that doesn’t overwhelm.

Another excellent choice is Orbital Movement, a hazy DIPA bursting with notes of passionfruit, mango, and grapefruit. Its silky mouthfeel and moderate 8% ABV make it dangerously drinkable. For those who enjoy a touch of malt sweetness, Cutting Clouds offers a slightly more caramel-forward profile with layers of citrus zest and pine.

Common Misconceptions About DIPAs

Some people assume that a Double IPA is simply twice as bitter as a regular IPA, but that’s not accurate. The bitterness is higher, but the malt and alcohol content also increase, creating a more complex and balanced beer. Another myth is that all DIPAs are heavy and syrupy. While some are full-bodied, many modern DIPAs — especially hazy or New England-style versions — are surprisingly smooth and light on the palate.

Lastly, don’t confuse DIPAs with barleywines or imperial stouts. While all are high-ABV styles, DIPAs are defined by their hop-forward character, whereas barleywines lean toward malt sweetness and imperial stouts focus on roasted, chocolatey flavors. Knowing these distinctions helps you choose the right beer for your mood.

Ready to dive into the world of Double IPAs? Start your journey with the Party Keg - #DIPA, a vibrant and balanced DIPA that captures everything this style has to offer. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying a quiet evening, it’s a beer that delivers bold flavor and pure craft satisfaction.