American invention. An intense, strong and very hoppy IPA. Imperial may also refer to "double" or "extra" IPAs. Strong body, hop flavor, and high alcohol content.
Profile
Smooth, medium to full body with high hop flavor. Hops may be complex or noble. Some alcohol warmth. Low to med malt flavor. Med gold amber to reddish color. Clear. Med to Med-high carbonation. Oak inappropriate.
Ingredients
Pale ale malt (well modified), American, Noble or English hops. Complex yeast. American yeast may give a slightly fruity palate. Often a single infusion mash is used. Water character may vary.
Examples
Dogfish Head 90-minute IPA, Rogue I2PA, Stone Ruination IPA, Russian River Pliny the Elder, Moylander Double IPA