India pale ale dates from the late eighteenth century and was developed by the Hodgson’s Company.
It was created to solve the problem of getting fresh-tasting beer to soldiers and sailors in India and other British colonies in sailing ships that had to navigate hot, tropical waters.
Unlike most British beers of the time, India pale ale had a very high hop and alcohol content, which countered bacteria that made beer taste sour.
The original India pale ale was copper-colored.
It was called pale because it was lighter than brown, porter, or stout ales.
The servicemen appreciated no longer having to drink “skunky” beer.
