A Session IPA is a beer that combines the intense hop aromas and flavours characteristic of IPAs with a lower alcohol content (3 to 5%). It usually has a light body and a clean, refreshing finish.
It is an excellent option for lovers of hoppy beers who prefer a little less alcoholic intensity.
IPAs with low alcohol content
Its low alcohol content is usually between 3% and 5% ABV. This makes it a more drinkable beer over long "sessions".
Although it has less alcohol than a standard IPA, it still retains the hoppy and aromatic profile that defines IPAs. It offers tropical fruit, citrus and resin flavours, but without the alcoholic punch.
Origin of the term "Session"
The term "session" is said to come from the United Kingdom, where factory workers during the First World War had short breaks or "sessions" during the day in which they could drink beer. To quench the workers' thirst without intoxicating them, this low-strength but flavourful beer was created. With less time to drink, workers looked for beers that allowed them to enjoy several pints without feeling too affected. This is how Session IPAs became the preferred drink in factories and workshops.
Adapted for all-day drinking
Session IPA is for those who enjoy beers with a strong hop flavour but want something lighter that lets them drink through an afternoon without becoming intoxicated quickly. This makes it ideal for social events or long gatherings.
A recent trend
Despite the older history of the "session beer" concept, Session IPA is a relatively recent phenomenon in the craft scene from the United States, gaining popularity since the early 2010s as a response to growing demand for beers with intense flavour but a lower alcohol percentage.
Perfect for warm weather
Because of their lightness and freshness, Session IPAs are ideal for summer and warm climates. They are served well chilled and are an excellent option for anyone looking for a refreshing beer without compromising flavour.
Balance between hops and malt
Despite their strongly hoppy profile, Session IPAs have a good balance between hops and malt. This means that, although hops dominate, the malt presence is enough to give the beer body and prevent it from becoming too bitter or dry.
Session and Saison: what is the difference?
Although both are low-strength beers, Session IPA and Saison have different origins and styles. Saisons are typically Belgian beers, spicier and with a more complex flavour profile. Session IPAs, by contrast, are hoppier and more citrus-forward.
Buy Session IPA beers online and enjoy hops without excess
If you have made it this far, you already know why craft Session IPA is a perfect choice. It is the only way to enjoy the aromatic, resinous hop profile you love, but with the softness of a low-strength beer.
The advantages of buying your Session IPA from us:
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Wide catalogue: Explore our collection of Session IPA from the most sought-after craft brands.
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Urgent shipping: Receive your beers fresh and safely at home.
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Ideal for gifting: Looking for a low-alcohol hoppy beer for a friend? Build a custom cart or choose one of our tasting sets.
What is the main difference between an IPA and a Session IPA?
The crucial difference is the alcohol content (ABV). A standard IPA usually sits between 6.0% and 7.5% ABV, while a Session IPA is designed to have low alcohol content, generally between 3% and 5% ABV. Both keep the same intensely hoppy and aromatic profile.
Does a Session IPA have the same bitterness as a normal IPA?
Yes, it can have a similar bitterness level (IBU) to a standard IPA. However, the challenge of Session IPA is maintaining that intense hop flavour (citrus, tropical fruit, resin) without the support of higher alcohol. Craft brewers achieve this with intensive hopping techniques such as Dry Hopping.
