Beer style
Best hops for American Pale Ale
A lighter version of American IPA - full hop character at a lower ABV. Easy-drinking, ideal for sessions.
Typical ABV
4.5–6.0%
Typical IBU
30–45
Alpha acid range
4.5–15.0%
Dominant purpose
Dual purpose
Recommended hops for American Pale Ale
5
Cascade
USADual purpose1972IPAAPAPils
Alpha acid4.5–9%
Beta acid4.8–7.5%
Total oil0.7–2.5 mL
GrapefruitFloralSpicyCitrus+1
Centennial
USADual purpose1990IPAAPAPils
Alpha acid7–12%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%
Total oil1–3 mL
PineCitrusFloralGrapefruit+1
Citra
USADual purpose2008IPAAPAPils
Alpha acid10–15%
Beta acid3–4.5%
Total oil1.5–3 mL
CitrusGrapefruitPeachMelon+5
Amarillo
USAAroma2014Pale AlePilsWitbier
Alpha acid7–11%
Beta acid5.5–8%
Total oil1–2.3 mL
FloralSpicyTropicalCitrus+7
Simcoe
USADual purpose2000IPAAPAPils
Alpha acid11–15%
Beta acid3–5%
Total oil0.8–3.2 mL
FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruit+5
How to brew American Pale Ale
Cascade, Centennial or Citra in aroma and dry hop. Pale Ale base with a touch of crystal/caramel malt for balance. Bitter, but not as intense as an IPA.