What is a Double IPA? IPA vs Double IPA Explained

A Double IPA, often called an Imperial IPA, is a stronger and more hop-forward version of a standard IPA. Put simply, it’s an IPA with everything dialed up. More hops. More malt. More alcohol.

So, what is a double IPA? It’s a beer built for intensity, delivering bigger flavor, stronger bitterness, and a higher kick than a regular IPA.

Most Imperial IPAs fall in the 7.5% to 10%+ ABV range (with Pinter, it’s much lower at ~7%), making them significantly stronger than typical IPAs.

The name can be confusing at first. What does double IPA mean? It doesn’t mean the beer is brewed twice. Instead, it means:

You might also hear it called a DIPA, short for double IPA.

If a regular IPA is your go-to, an Imperial IPA is the bigger, more intense version - the same style, just pushed further.

What is an IPA?

An IPA (India Pale Ale) is a hop-forward beer known for bold flavor and a crisp, bitter edge.

The defining feature? Hops. They bring out bright notes like citrus, pine, and tropical fruit, depending on the style. Most IPAs fall in the 5% to 7% ABV range, making them flavorful but still highly drinkable.

IPAs originally came from Britain, where they were brewed with extra hops for long sea voyages. American craft brewers later reinvented the style, dialing up hop aroma and flavor to create the modern IPA we know today.

Double IPA vs IPA: Key Differences

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:

Not every Imperial IPA needs to push into 7.5-10% ABV to feel big.

For example, Pinter’s Space Hopper Imperial IPA comes in at around 7% ABV, yet still brings intense hop character, full body, and bold bitterness, proving it’s about overall intensity, not just alcohol.

What Makes a Double IPA Stronger?

A Double IPA (or Imperial IPA) is stronger by design. It’s not just one change; it’s a combination that builds intensity.

More Hops

First up, hops. Imperial IPAs use a lot more hops, which means:

Think citrus, pine, and tropical notes that really stand out. That’s what gives the style its bold, in-your-face character.

Higher Malt Bill

To balance those hops, brewers increase the malt bill.

Here’s what that does:

It also adds a slightly sweet backbone and fuller body, stopping the beer from tasting too sharp or bitter.

Higher ABV

All of this results in a higher ABV.

Simply put, more ingredients = more sugar = more alcohol after fermentation.

That’s why an Imperial IPA feels stronger, heavier, and more intense than a regular IPA but still balanced enough to enjoy.

The Pinter Difference - Big Flavor, Not Just Big ABV

Pinter takes a different route when it comes to building an Imperial IPA.

Take Space Hopper Imperial IPA. At around 7% ABV, it’s lower than many traditional Imperial IPAs, but it still delivers a bold experience.

That’s because the focus is on flavor intensity over just alcohol strength:

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A heavy hop profile drives a strong citrus aroma and firm bitterness

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A full-bodied feel makes the beer taste substantial

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A balanced malt backbone keeps everything smooth and drinkable

So instead of relying purely on higher ABV, Pinter builds an Imperial IPA that feels big, bold, and full of character - just in a more balanced, approachable way.

Shop Space Hopper Imperial IPA

What Does a Double IPA Taste Like?

A Double IPA (or Imperial IPA) is known for its bold, intense, and layered flavor. Everything is turned up compared to a regular IPA.

You’ll often get:

At the same time, it has a fuller, richer body, which gives the beer more depth and balance.

Here’s the easiest way to think about it:

It’s less of a quick, easy drink - and more of a beer you slow down and enjoy.

How Double IPAs are Brewed

Brewing a Double IPA follows the same basic idea as a regular IPA; it’s just dialed up.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. More Ingredients (Especially Hops and Malt)

Brewers use more hops to boost aroma and bitterness, plus more malt to support the added strength and flavor.

2. Fermentation Works Harder

With more sugar from the malt, fermentation produces more alcohol. That’s what gives Imperial IPAs their higher ABV and fuller character.

3. More Time to Balance Out

These beers usually need a bit more time to come together, so the strong hop profile and richer body stay smooth and drinkable.

So while the process is the same, everything is pushed further.

With Pinter, that same approach is made simple. You’re using the same core ingredients - hops, malt, and yeast - but in a way that lets you create a bold, fresh Imperial IPA at home without the complexity.

Can You Brew IPA-Style Beers at Home?

Yes, and it’s easier than most people think.

Traditional homebrewing can feel complicated. But Pinter simplifies the entire process, so you don’t need special equipment or experience.

The process is straightforward:

That’s it. No complex setup, no steep learning curve.

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This is one of the reasons our IPA-style beers are so popular to brew at home. They deliver bold, hop-driven flavor, and you can immediately notice the difference when the beer is fresh.

With Pinter, you can brew a variety of IPA-style beers, including:

Each one highlights a different side of hops, whether that’s bright citrus, tropical notes, or a more intense, full-bodied profile. And because you’re pouring it fresh from your Pinter, you get peak flavor and aroma in every glass, without the delays of packaging and shipping.

IPA vs Double IPA: Which One Should You Choose?

It really depends on the kind of drinking experience you’re after. Both styles work - just in different situations.

Pick an IPA if you want:

Go with an Imperial IPA if you want:

The easiest way to frame it:

It’s less about which is better and more about what suits the moment.

Final Thoughts: Understanding Double IPA

A Double IPA or Imperial IPA is essentially a stronger, more hop-forward version of a standard IPA. But it’s not just about boosting the alcohol. What really matters is intensity of flavor - more hops, more body, and a more layered experience in every sip.

That’s what sets it apart. It’s not just stronger; it’s bigger, bolder, and more expressive.

If you already enjoy IPAs, stepping into Imperial IPAs is a natural next move, and with home brewing through Pinter, you can experience it fresh. 

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About the author

Jess D’Amico

Community Director

Jess D’Amico is one of Pinter’s brewing experts, here to share everything she knows and keep the brewing community connected with the team behind the scenes.