Welcome to our ultimate guide to crafting the iconic Coopers Australian IPA, a beloved brew renowned for its robust hop character and refreshing bitterness. As we walk you through the steps, let’s dive into the rich flavors and history behind this Aussie classic.
Section 1: The History of Coopers Australian IPA
Coopers: A Brewing Legacy
Coopers Brewery, established in Adelaide in 1862, is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected breweries. Their Australian IPA, first released in 1992, quickly became a staple in the local beer scene and gained international recognition.
The Original IPA: Hoppy Heritage
The Indian Pale Ale (IPA) originated in England in the 18th century. Brewed with extra hops for preservation during long sea voyages to India, these beers developed a characteristic bitterness and hoppy aroma. Coopers Australian IPA pays homage to this tradition, using a blend of Australian and international hops.
Section 2: Ingredients and Techniques
Essential Ingredients
To brew your own Coopers Australian IPA, gather these essential ingredients:
- Coopers Australian IPA Brewing Extract
- Light Dried Malt Extract
- Dark Dried Malt Extract
- Hops (Pellets or Leaf)
- Yeast
- Water
Brewing Process
The Coopers Australian IPA recipe follows a traditional brewing process:
- Steep the grains in hot water (Mashing)
- Boil the wort (Boiling)
- Add hops during boiling (Hopping)
- Cool the wort and transfer to a fermentation vessel (Fermentation)
- Add yeast and allow to ferment (Fermenting)
- Condition in bottles or kegs (Conditioning)
Section 3: Recipe and Step-by-Step Guide
Recipe:
- Coopers Australian IPA Brewing Extract (1.7 kg)
- Light Dried Malt Extract (500 g)
- Dark Dried Malt Extract (125 g)
- Hops (15 g each): Galaxy, Vic Secret, Centennial
- Yeast (11 g dry yeast or 50 g fresh yeast)
- Water (23 L)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Mash the grains in 10 L of hot (65-70°C) water for 30 minutes.
- Boil the wort for 60 minutes, adding the hops at different stages for specific flavors:
- Galaxy and Vic Secret: Boil for 60 minutes
- Centennial: Boil for 30 minutes
- Cool the wort to 20°C and transfer to a fermentation vessel.
- Pitch the yeast and allow to ferment at 18-24°C for 7-14 days.
- Condition in bottles or kegs for 2-3 weeks before enjoying.
Section 4: Tasting Notes and Pairing Recommendations
Tasting Notes
Coopers Australian IPA boasts a deep amber hue with a dense, creamy head. Its aroma is a symphony of tropical fruits, citrus, and piney hops. On the palate, it delivers a balanced bitterness with notes of grapefruit, passionfruit, and a subtle sweetness. The finish is crisp and refreshing.
Pairing Recommendations
Coopers Australian IPA pairs well with grilled meats, spicy dishes, and aged cheeses. Its hoppy character complements the flavors of pulled pork, barbecued ribs, and grilled salmon.
Section 5: Conclusion
Creating your own Coopers Australian IPA is a rewarding experience that yields a delicious and authentic craft beer. By following our recipe and tips, you can enjoy this beloved Aussie classic in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or a curious novice, prepare to embark on a hoppy adventure with Coopers Australian IPA.
Remember to share your brewing experiences and cheers with fellow food lovers as you raise a glass to this iconic Australian IPA.
FAQ about Coopers Australian IPA Recipe
What type of malt is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for:
- 5.5 kg (12 lbs) of Pale Malt
- 1.0 kg (2.2 lbs) of Crystal Malt 150
- 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs) of Caramalt
What type of hops are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for:
- 25 g (0.9 oz) of Galaxy hops (60 minute boil)
- 20 g (0.7 oz) of Topaz hops (30 minute boil)
- 52 g (1.8 oz) of Cascade hops (15 minute boil)
- 115 g (4.1 oz) of Citra hops (flameout)
What is the mash temperature?
The mash temperature for this recipe is 65-67°C (149-153°F).
What is the boil time?
The boil time for this recipe is 60 minutes.
What is the original gravity (OG) and final gravity (FG) of this recipe?
The original gravity (OG) of this recipe is 1.058-1.062. The final gravity (FG) is 1.012-1.016.