Coopers has announced the release of the Australian IPA, a new beer that is described as ‘distinctly Australian.’
The limited edition release will be available from this month in 375ml cans for retail, as well as kegs for the on-premise. It’s the latest edition in the brand’s growing portfolio of craft beers, which includes the core range’s XPA and the limited edition Hazy IPA.
Dr Tim Cooper, Managing Director and Chief Brewer at Coopers, said the beer has been in development for many months, with the brewing team spending much of this time honing the hops blend into a local take on the traditional IPA.
“IPAs continue to grow in popularity among craft beer drinkers. Australians are also turning to local brands they know and trust. So while there is a large number of overseas styles in the market, we saw demand for a great tasting IPA with a distinct local touch,” said Dr Cooper.
“We’re very mindful about when to bring out a new beer and an enormous amount of time goes into getting it right. We’ve come up with a great tasting Australian IPA that will suit any occasion.”
At 6.5 per cent ABV and a bitterness level of 40 IBU, the new beer is described as being full flavoured, with a blend of Australian exotic hops, citrus notes of mandarin and orange, and pine and passionfruit characteristics. The use of local hops provides a point of difference to IPAs from the US, despite the similarities that are usually found between Australian and American IPAs.
Coopers also noted that the Australian IPA remains true to the brewery’s traditional form of ale brewing and natural conditioning, and was created on a foundation of Coopers malt. This leads to a full mouthfeel and the maintenance of the beer’s distinctive flavour.
To celebrate the launch, Coopers has teamed up with Australian singer songwriter James Reyne, who will help launch the beer. Reyne, who was one of the first artists to take part in Coopers’ on-premise Live, Loud and Local initiative, will feature in a creative campaign shot at the Silverton Hotel in Broken Hill, as well as perform at trade events across the country this month.
“Australian beer goes hand in hand with live Australian music. As a long-time fan of Coopers beer I was happy to get on board with the Australian IPA, and it tastes great,” Reyne said.
Coopers Australian IPA will be available for retail in four packs and cartons from late April.