The New England IPA: The Hazy Revolution That Changed Beer

A Modern Classic in the World of Beer

Few styles have taken the craft beer world by storm, quite like the New England IPA (NEIPA). With its signature hazy appearance, pillowy mouthfeel, and bold, juicy hop flavours, the NEIPA has redefined what an IPA can be. Unlike its West Coast counterpart (West Coast IPA), which emphasises bitterness and clarity, the NEIPA is all about softness, balance, and an explosion of fruit-forward hop character.

But how did this style emerge, and why has it become one of the most sought-after beer styles worldwide?

The Birth of the NEIPA

The origins of the New England IPA can be traced back to the early 2000s in Vermont, USA. Here, The Alchemist Brewery released Heady Topper, a beer that defied conventional IPA norms. It remained hazy instead of being filtered to a crystal-clear finish (known as “bright” beer). Instead of biting bitterness, it focused on juicy, fruit-forward hop flavours. Rather than using traditional brewing techniques, it experimented with dry-hopping methods that maximised aroma while keeping the finish smooth and refreshing.

This unconventional approach quickly caught on. Other breweries across New England started crafting their interpretations, embracing haze as a sign of freshness and quality rather than a flaw. The style spread across the United States and beyond, capturing the imagination of brewers and drinkers alike.

What Makes a New England IPA Unique?

The NEIPA stands out from other IPA styles in several ways:
✅ Hazy & unfiltered – High-protein malts like wheat and oats give NEIPAs their characteristic haze while enhancing the mouthfeel.
✅ Juicy, fruit-forward hops – Instead of focusing on piney bitterness, NEIPAs highlight tropical and citrus flavours, with mango, pineapple, and stone fruit notes.
✅ Soft, pillowy mouthfeel – Thanks to specific water chemistry and the use of dextrin-rich malts, NEIPAs have a smooth, almost creamy texture.
✅ Low bitterness, high aroma – By shifting hop additions to the later stages of brewing and dry-hopping, NEIPAs burst with flavour and aroma without an overly bitter bite.

The Global Rise of the NEIPA

What started as a regional curiosity quickly grew into a global phenomenon. By the mid-2010s, breweries worldwide embraced the style, each putting their spin on it. Some leaned into the juiciness, enhancing tropical flavours with innovative hop varieties. Others experimented with double and triple-strength versions, pushing the boundaries of intensity and ABV.

Today, the NEIPA is a staple of modern craft beer. It has not only changed the way IPAs are brewed and perceived but also influenced other styles, from hazy pale ales to juicy lagers. Its popularity shows no sign of slowing down as brewers refine and evolve the style.

A Modern Take: Gem State of Mind

At Tūn Brewing, we love celebrating beer styles that have shaped the craft movement while adding our own unique touch. Gem State of Mind is our take on the New England IPA—hazy, juicy, and luxuriously smooth.

Brewed with Extra Pale malt, Torrefied Wheat, and Torrefied Oats, this NEIPA delivers a soft, pillowy mouthfeel. Idaho #7 and Citra hops bring bold bursts of mango, pineapple, and citrus, with subtle pine and stone fruit undertones. Fermented with Pomona yeast, it enhances the juicy hop expression while keeping the finish crisp and refreshing.

The name Gem State of Mind is inspired by Idaho #7 hops, which play a key role in shaping this beer’s bold flavour. Idaho, also known as "The Gem State", is home to some of the world’s most exciting and expressive hop varieties. Idaho #7 is prized for its intense tropical fruit, citrus, and subtle pine character—making it a perfect fit for a hazy, juicy NEIPA.

At 6.5% ABV, Gem State of Mind is everything you want in a modern NEIPA—hazy, juicy, and bursting with flavour.

Want to experience a fresh take on a New England classic? Gem State of Mind is available now at select Manchester venues and on our website.

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A Hazy Future for Craft Beer

From its humble beginnings in Vermont to becoming a defining style of modern craft brewing, the New England IPA has changed how we think about hops, haze, and drinkability. Whether you prefer a classic interpretation or a fresh new take like Gem State of Mind, this style has left an indelible mark on beer culture.

Want to taste the future of hazy IPAs? Grab a can or two of Gem State of Mind and let us know your thoughts!

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