An IPA, or India Pale Ale, is a style of beer characterized by a strong hop flavor and aroma, often with fruity and citrus notes. It is a type of pale ale that is typically more bitter and hoppier than other beers, with an alcohol content usually ranging from about 3% to 10% ABV, depending on the specific style of IPA

. The origin of the IPA dates back to the late 18th century in England. It was originally brewed with higher amounts of hops and alcohol to preserve the beer during long sea voyages from Britain to India, which was then part of the British Empire. The extra hops acted as a natural preservative, helping the beer survive the hot and humid conditions during transport

. Today, IPAs are a popular craft beer style worldwide, especially in the US and Europe, and come in many variations such as English IPA, West Coast IPA, East Coast IPA, Double (Imperial) IPA, Triple IPA, and Session IPA, each with distinct flavor profiles and alcohol levels

. In summary, an IPA is a hop-forward pale ale with historical roots in British colonial trade, now celebrated for its bold, bitter, and often fruity taste