Earlier this year, the UK based brewery Hiver debuted a new Honey IPA to join its existing lineup of honey-infused beers. Made with raw, unpasteurized honey from independent British beekeepers, the lightly sweetened drinks are great for those who are looking for a lighter beer option.
Honey beer is actually a traditional drink in the UK, however Hiver was established out of an effort to make honey the star ingredient, rather than an addition for flavoring. The result was a series of brilliant beers made with some of the UK's best honey.
The latest addition to the Hiver lineup is the Honey IPA, which was made available in kegs and casks as of early 2017. Unlike other IPAs, the delicate honey aftertaste helps to balance the bitterness of the hops, making it a more accessible option for those who generally shy away from IPAs.
Honey-Infused IPAs
Hiver's Honey IPA Combines the Bitter Taste of Hops with the Sweetness of Honey
Trend Themes
1. Honey-infused Beers - The increasing popularity of honey-infused beers presents an opportunity for breweries to tap into the demand for unique and flavorful brews.
2. Raw, Unpasteurized Ingredients - The use of raw, unpasteurized ingredients like honey highlights a trend towards more natural and artisanal products in the brewing industry.
3. Balancing Flavors - Creating beers that balance strong flavors like bitterness and sweetness, as seen in the Honey IPA, can attract a wider range of beer drinkers.
Industry Implications
1. Craft Brewing - Craft breweries can experiment with honey-infused beers to create distinctive offerings and cater to the evolving preferences of beer enthusiasts.
2. Honey Production - The demand for honey-infused beers can boost the honey production industry and create new opportunities for independent beekeepers.
3. Alcohol Beverage Manufacturing - The trend of using unique ingredients like raw honey in alcoholic beverages provides opportunities for innovation and differentiation in the industry.