Episode 352: Modern West Coast IPA at Breakside

Modern West Coast IPA is defined by dryness, pale color, intense aroma, and the active use of hop-derived sulfur. Ben Edmunds, brewmaster at Breakside Brewery, explains that today's West Coast IPA distinguishes itself from American IPAs and earlier West Coast IPA iterations through drier profiles achieved via lighter malt bills and higher hop loads. Bitterness, while analytically lower than in the past, is influenced by Hazy IPA trends. A key attribute is the presence of sulfur compounds, including thiols and mercaptans, which amplify hop perception. Edmunds details the evolution of Breakside IPA, noting reductions in original gravity, terminal gravity, and crystal malt, alongside increased dry-hopping with layered hop varieties. Brewers often disagree on pH adjustments, dry hop methods, hop creep management, and whirlpool temperatures, leading to diverse expressions within the style.