The Long Road to India
The history of the IPA is a bit of a mystery. While popular tales say it was invented as a survival tactic for the long, rocky voyage from Britain to India, the truth is more of a slow-burn evolution. IPA actually evolved from aged October ales, which British brewers realised could survive the gruelling six-month trek across the equator by packing them with a massive dose of hops to act as a natural preservative; the result was a beer that, when consumed ice-cold, perfectly suited the Anglo-Indian palate.
As these bright, hop-forward ales became the go-to refreshment in the heat of the East, the "India Pale Ale" name finally stuck. The style eventually faded into obscurity until the 1970s, when rebellious American homebrewers brought it back. By swapping traditional recipes for bold, citrusy local hops, they sparked a global revolution that made the IPA the heavy-hitting staple of the craft beer world today.
Built to be a Standout
While some beers are born from a specific experiment or a wild trip overseas, our Core IPA was built to be the definitive "everyday" standout. For this beer, the goal wasn't to chase a trend, but to hit that elusive sweet spot, an IPA that sits precisely in the sweet spot between the two coastlines of the craft beer world. Rather than leaning into a resinous West Coast punch or a thick East Coast haze, this beer finds its own lane. A cracking combination of American and NZ hops delivers huge character and bright aromatics, while keeping the finish clean, crisp, and ready for the next sip.
"This one is a bit of a no-brainer for me", says Head Brewer Abby. "It stays smooth, super drinkable, and just keeps you going back for another sip. It’s got all the flavour to show you what hops can do, without being over the top or hard to drink."The Anatomy of the Brew
At 6% ABV, the Core IPA carries enough weight to feel substantial, but it’s famously light on its feet. The magic lies in the hop blend, which brings together the best of both hemispheres:
American Hops
Providing those punchy, bright, and classic character notes IPA lovers crave. Providing those punchy, bright, and classic character notes IPA lovers crave.
NZ Hops:
Adding a layer of fresh, tropical vibrance that lifts the aromatic profile.
The result is a beer that is bright, fresh, and remarkably consistent. It’s a technical achievement in precision, staying smooth and approachable while maintaining a bold hop identity.
An IPA for Everyone
Beyond the technicality, this beer serves as the ideal entry point into the world of
hops. While it has the aromatic depth that seasoned "hop-heads" look for, it lacks the aggressive bite that can sometimes make IPAs feel intimidating. It’s a showcase of what modern brewing can be: complex yet clean, and sophisticated yet easy-going.
Keen to try the Core?
Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, our Core IPA is our Beer of the Month for a reason. It’s the beer we drink when we finish a shift, and it's the heart of our range, one we’re really proud to see in your glass.
If you haven’t tried it yet… You probably should.
Shop online today or swing by The Kennel for a pint straight from the tap.
