What is a Black IPA / Cascadian Dark Ale?
Black IPA, also known as Cascadian Dark Ale, is a style of beer that combines the hop-forward characteristics of an India Pale Ale (IPA) with the dark malt flavors of a stout or porter. This style is characterized by its dark color, typically ranging from deep brown to black, and its prominent hop bitterness and aroma. Despite its name, Black IPA does not actually contain any black malt; instead, it gets its dark color from roasted malts like chocolate malt or black patent malt.
History and Origins of the Style
The origins of Black IPA are somewhat murky, with conflicting claims about where and when the style first emerged. Some sources attribute the creation of Black IPA to Greg Noonan, a brewer from Vermont, who brewed a beer called Blackwatch IPA in the early 1990s. Others credit the Pacific Northwest, particularly Oregon and Washington, for popularizing the style under the name Cascadian Dark Ale. Regardless of its origins, Black IPA quickly gained popularity among craft beer enthusiasts for its unique combination of flavors.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
Black IPA is characterized by a balance of roasted malt flavors and hop bitterness. The roasted malts contribute notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel, while the hops add citrus, pine, and floral aromas. The bitterness level of Black IPA is typically higher than that of a traditional IPA, but it is balanced by the malt sweetness and roasted flavors. The beer has a medium to full body and a dry finish, making it a complex and satisfying brew.
Ingredients Used in Brewing
The key ingredients in brewing Black IPA are malt, hops, yeast, and water. The malt bill typically includes a combination of base malts like pale malt or pilsner malt, as well as specialty malts like chocolate malt, black patent malt, and crystal malt. The hops used in Black IPA are often American varieties like Cascade, Centennial, and Citra, which contribute to the beer’s bold hop character. The yeast strain used in brewing Black IPA is usually a clean American ale yeast, which allows the malt and hop flavors to shine through.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Black IPA pairs well with a variety of foods, thanks to its balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. The roasted malt flavors complement grilled meats, barbecue, and charred vegetables, while the hop bitterness cuts through rich and fatty dishes like burgers and fried foods. The citrus and pine notes from the hops also pair nicely with spicy dishes like curry or Mexican cuisine. For dessert, try pairing Black IPA with chocolate desserts or creamy cheeses like brie or camembert.
Popular Examples of Black IPAs / Cascadian Dark Ales
Some popular examples of Black IPAs / Cascadian Dark Ales include:
1. Deschutes Brewery – Obsidian Stout
2. Stone Brewing – Sublimely Self-Righteous Black IPA
3. 21st Amendment Brewery – Back in Black IPA
4. Rogue Ales – Shakespeare Oatmeal Stout
5. Firestone Walker Brewing Company – Wookey Jack Black Rye IPA
These breweries have gained recognition for their exceptional Black IPAs, which showcase the unique flavors and characteristics of this style. Whether you prefer the roasted malt complexity or the hop-forward bitterness, Black IPA offers a truly distinctive drinking experience for craft beer enthusiasts.