5 Chinese IPA Beers That Will Blow Your Mind
We usually don’t associate China with IPA, but we were wrong.
There’s nothing better than a cold Indian pale ale brew after a long day's work, am I right, ladies and gents? Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t consider myself a professional beer connoisseur, but I understand what constitutes a tasty brew.
The tastiest of my entire life, Manny’s Pale Ale, is heaven on earth. It was the first IPA I’d ever drank, and since then, I’ve been chasing the unicorn, trying to find something even remotely as tasty.
Now that I live in China, many would probably suspect the IPA journey has ended. After all, China is most well known for its light lager beers, which I covered this past week in the “Top 8 Chinese Beers You Need to Try”.
Yet, you’d be wrong to think that. China has an incredible amount of variety in its IPA market. Chinese and foreign-centric brands have set up shops in China and solidified themselves within the market.
The drinks I am listing are IPAs I have tried personally. I’m sure there are lovely IPAs I won’t list because I haven’t tried them. So what should we do about that? Comment your favorite's name so that I can give it a shot!
So, what are the best IPA beers in China? Let’s break it down.
China’s Best IPA Beer Brands
The obvious first choice for me is Tsingtao’s IPA. I’ve gone into incredible detail on the Tsingtao brewery, as it has an over 100-year history that is a must-read! Tsingtao is not just known for its IPA; quite the opposite.
Their original lager is one of the most drank beers by the population in the entire world. However, because I live in Qingdao, the home of Tsingtao, I get particular iterations that are only available here!
Tsingtao’s IPA is out of this world. Crisp, flavorful, and packing a punch, Tsingtao IPA is a must-try if you ever visit Qingdao.
2. Goose Island IPA
This wouldn’t be a list of China’s top IPAs without mentioning Goose Island. I know what you’re thinking; Goose Island is based in Chicago! Well, Goose Island is easily the #1 most-drank IPA in China
With a ton of variety outside their standard hazy IPA, Goose Island has become one of the go-to's for expat-centric bars and communities within China. You can find it in almost any major city, so give it a try!
2. Sucker Punch Pale Ale by Boxing Cat Brewery
One of the most prominent players in Shanghai Brewing, Boxing Cat, was acquired by AB InBev in 2017. Yet, the new owner continues to pump out delicious IPAs, including the Sucker Punch Pale Ale, for all in Shanghai.
When I visited Shanghai this past year, I gave it a try, and it’s a shame that it isn’t so readily available here in Qingdao. It’s a killer beer! If you ever visit Shanghai, you need to give it a shot.
3. Jing-A (京A) Flying Fist IPA
Jing-A has been a standout in the Chinese beer market for years, filling Beijingers' bellies and rosy cheeks. Their Flying Fist IPA is top of the class, boasting a mix of Citra and Simcoe hops. It is a joy to have on a hot day.
With a creamy mouth feel and a whole body, Flying Fist is incredibly citrusy while continuing to be smooth. I was lucky enough to try it here in Qingdao, and boy, do I wish there was more here!
4. Great Leap Chesty Puller American IPA
Hailing from Beijing, Great Leap’s Chesty Puller American IPA is a great IPA that I’d recommend to just about anyone. Creamy and citrusy with an undertone of pine, it’s undoubtedly refreshing.
Luckily this beer is readily available outside of China, as Great Leap has pushed its way into the international market following its successes. Anything from Great Leap is good, but the Chest Puller IPA is by far my favorite from their selection.
5. Goose Island IPA
This wouldn’t be a list of China’s top IPAs without mentioning Goose Island. I know what you’re thinking; Goose Island is based in Chicago! Well, Goose Island is easily the #1 most-drank IPA in China
With a ton of variety outside their standard hazy IPA, Goose Island has become one of the go-to’s for expat-centric bars and communities within China. You can find it in almost any major city, so give it a try!
That’s All, Folks
As I mentioned before, China is well known for its light-lager beers. As IPA beers have continued to grow in popularity throughout the west, they’ve undoubtedly found a solid home within the major cities of China.
Here’s to hoping that more brewers take the leap and delve deeper into the IPA world. The more, the merrier, I’d say.
What’s your favorite IPA? What country is it from? Comment down below!
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