Collaborating with British brewmaster Alan Pugsley, the Sharmas embarked on a mission to revive the historical narrative of India Pale Ale (IPA)
Brothers Van and Sumit Sharma, the creators of Rupee Beer, have expanded their lineup by adding a British-Indian IPA to their award-winning collection. Launched in 2021, Rupee Beer initially gained recognition for its Basmati Rice Lager and Mango Wheat Ale, which seamlessly complemented the flavors of Indian cuisine. Featured in reputable publications such as Forbes, Bloomberg, and The Washington Post, the Sharmas’ unique approach to brewing has garnered attention.
Collaborating with British brewmaster Alan Pugsley, the Sharmas embarked on a mission to revive the historical narrative of India Pale Ale (IPA). Despite their Indian heritage, the brothers had refrained from brewing an IPA until now. The decision was driven by a desire to educate consumers about the style’s origins, intricately intertwined with British colonization in the 19th century.
Van Sharma explained, “We wanted to help retell the story of why [the beer style is] called an IPA,” shedding light on the misconception prevalent at craft beer festivals. The Sharmas aimed to introduce a “British-Indian IPA,” a nod to the style’s English roots, while maintaining Rupee’s commitment to crafting high-quality, food-friendly beers.
In a market flooded with diverse beer styles, Rupee IPA stands out not just for its flavor profile but for its role as a cultural ambassador, beckoning drinkers to appreciate the rich history behind the beloved India Pale Ale.
Rupee IPA distinguishes itself from contemporary American IPAs with its copper color, bright clarity, and a balanced malt-hop profile. With a 5.4% ABV, it pays homage to traditional British IPAs, offering a crisp hop bitterness complemented by subtle maltiness. The beer’s approachability makes it a perfect pairing for spicy world cuisine, avoiding the overpowering bitterness that can clash with the flavors of such meals.
The intricately designed can of Rupee IPA not only showcases the brewery’s commitment to quality but also serves as a storytelling tool. Drawing inspiration from the story of Sultan Sher Shah Suri, the founder of the Indian rupee, the can provides a brief history lesson about the British East India Company’s influence on the subcontinent.
Van Sharma emphasized the educational aspect of Rupee IPA, stating, “For Rupee’s IPA, we are very much brewing our IPA to educate more mainstream America on how the IPA got its name.” The beer encourages consumers to explore the cultural identity associated with its origins, sparking conversations about the historical context of IPAs.
In a market flooded with diverse beer styles, Rupee IPA stands out not just for its flavor profile but for its role as a cultural ambassador, beckoning drinkers to appreciate the rich history behind the beloved India Pale Ale.
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