On the occasion of India Pale Ale Day in early August, Bira brewed four fresh IPAs using different varieties of hops. To savour these new flavours in the Single Hop Series, Bira held a tasting session led by their head brewers, Jose Flores and Shashank Kulkarni, at the Bira 91 Taproom in Bengaluru.

The Red IPA (6.4% ABV, IBU: 42) featured the strong, spicy and woody notes of HBC-472 hop, complemented by delightful coconut, nutty and soft Bourbonesque aromas. It had a medium- to full-body mouthfeel and a prominent coconut and vanilla presence, making each sip a smooth, non-harsh delight.

The menu paired it with Mexican mushrooms, and Peri Peri grilled chicken steak. The combination of flavours made it one of a kind and my favourite amongst the four.

The Azacca IPA (7% ABV, IBU: 45) boasts of aromas of tropical and stone fruits like mango, papaya and peach, with a hint of honey. The light to medium body, with peach, apricot and mango flavours dance on your palate, and culminate in a clean, dry finish.

Paired with Bangers and Mash, and Korean chicken tacos, this beer is a testament to the art of hops.

The Vic Secret IPA (7% ABV, IBU: 45) is light golden to amber with a hazy, unfiltered profile. It showcases a delightful blend of tropical, floral and spruce notes. It is medium-bodied, with a dry finish and pleasant bitterness.

The vibrant passion fruit, pine and herbal essence from Vic Secret hops were paired with Yasai tempura and Cannelloni pasta.

The tropical paradise of the El Dorado IPA (7% ABV, IBU: 40) featured a pale, hazy appearance and boasted clean aromas of pineapple, piney undertones, mandarin zest and cantaloupe, perfectly balanced.

The medium-full body and smooth, piney finish had the beer paired with Koliwada prawns and Capers grilled fish on the menu.