Stone IPA

Stone IPA – The Benchmark West Coast IPA

Stone IPA is more than just a beer — it’s a pioneer of the craft beer revolution and a staple for hop lovers everywhere. First brewed in 1997 to celebrate Stone Brewing’s first anniversary, this iconic India Pale Ale has become a global standard for what a classic West Coast IPA should be: unapologetically bold, brimming with hop intensity, yet perfectly balanced by a sturdy malt backbone.

For seasoned IPA drinkers or newcomers eager to taste the real deal, Stone IPA is an experience you won’t forget.

Aromas and Flavors That Command Attention

Open a bottle or can of Stone IPA, and you’ll be greeted by an explosion of fresh, piney, citrus aromas. On the nose, expect notes of grapefruit rind, lemon zest, and a hint of tropical fruit layered over subtle floral hints and resinous pine.

The first sip delivers exactly what the aroma promises: an assertive yet beautifully balanced bitterness. Bright flavors of citrus, pine, and stone fruit glide over a gentle caramel malt sweetness, ensuring that the hops shine without overpowering the palate. The finish is dry and crisp, inviting you back for sip after sip.

Masterfully Crafted

What makes Stone IPA so special is the uncompromising brewing process. It’s brewed with a carefully selected lineup of hops that include Magnum, Chinook, Centennial, Azacca, Calypso, Ella, and Vic Secret. These hops work together to build layers of bitterness, aromatic oils, and that distinctive piney-citrus punch.

At 6.9% ABV and packing around 71 IBUs (International Bitterness Units), Stone IPA is robust but refreshingly drinkable — a true example of balance despite its bold hop-forward character.

Perfect Pairings

The crisp bite and complex hop flavors of Stone IPA make it incredibly food-friendly. It’s an ideal partner for a range of dishes:

• Spicy foods: Enhance the heat of buffalo wings, Thai curries, or spicy tacos.

• Grilled meats: The resinous hop notes stand up well to smoky BBQ ribs, char-grilled burgers, or steak.

• Savory cheeses: Try it with sharp cheddar or a pungent blue cheese to highlight contrasting flavors.

• Seafood: A great match for fried calamari, grilled shrimp, or fish tacos.

Its palate-cleansing bitterness and carbonation cut through rich, fatty foods, making every bite as satisfying as the first.

Product Highlights

• Beer Style: West Coast India Pale Ale

• ABV: 6.9%

• IBU: Approximately 71

• Appearance: Golden-amber pour with a frothy, lasting white head

• Packaging: Available in bottles, cans, and on draft

• Brewer: Stone Brewing, Escondido, California

Why Stone IPA Remains a Classic

• Trailblazing pedigree: One of the first aggressively hopped IPAs to gain a worldwide fan base.

• Consistently fresh: Brewed and packaged with quality and freshness in mind.

• Hop-forward yet balanced: An approachable bitterness that keeps you coming back for more.

• A craft beer icon: Frequently cited as a must-try for anyone exploring the IPA style.

A Must-Have for Hop Lovers

Whether you’re relaxing at home, enjoying game night with friends, or firing up the backyard grill, Stone IPA delivers the bold, crisp refreshment you crave. Its unmistakable West Coast character has stood the test of time and continues to influence brewers and beer drinkers around the globe.

Stock your fridge with a six-pack, crack one open, and taste why Stone IPA is a true legend in the world of craft beer.