Had no idea Belgian IPA existed.
Yes, a sub category of 21A IPA
Specialty IPA: Belgian IPA
Overall Impression: A dry, hoppy IPA with fruitiness and
spiciness of Belgian yeast. Often lighter in color and more
attenuated, similar to a Belgian Tripel that has been brewed
with more hops.
Aroma: Moderate to high hop aroma, often reflecting the
character of American or New World hops (tropical, melon,
stone fruit, citrus, piney, etc.) or Continental hops (spicy,
herbal, floral, etc.), possibly with a light dry-hop note. Gentle
malt sweetness, sometimes with a sugary or honey character,
but rarely caramel. Moderate to high esters, often pears,
apples, citrus, or banana. Light spice, clove or pepper, optional.
Light alcohol aroma optional.
Appearance: Light golden to amber in color. Moderate to
large off-white head with good retention. Good to quite hazy
clarity.
Flavor: Moderate fruity and spicy flavors, same descriptors as
aroma. Moderate to high hop flavor, same descriptors as
aroma. Light, relatively neutral grainy malt flavor, optionally
with low toast, caramel, or honey. Moderate to high bitterness.
Dry to medium-dry finish that often accentuates the perception
of bitterness. Aftertaste has a lingering bitterness but is not
harsh.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body. Medium to high
carbonation level, which can lighten the impression of body.
Light warmth optional.
Comments: The choice of yeast strain and hop varieties is
critical since many choices will clash horribly.
History: A relatively modern style, dating from the mid-
2000s. Homebrewers and craft breweries substituted Belgian
yeast in their American IPA recipes. Belgian breweries typically
added more hops to their stronger pale beers.
Characteristic Ingredients: Belgian yeast strains used in
making Belgian Tripels and Golden Strong Ales. American
examples tend to use American or New World hops while
Belgian versions tend to use European hops and only pale malt.
Sugar adjuncts common.
Style Comparison: A cross between an American IPA or
Double IPA with a Belgian Golden Strong Ale or Belgian Tripel.
This style is may be spicier, stronger, drier, and fruitier than an
American IPA.
Vital Statistics: OG: 1.058 – 1.080
IBUs: 50 – 100 FG: 1.008 – 1.016
SRM: 5 – 8 ABV: 6.2 – 9.5%
Commercial Examples: Brewery Vivant Triomphe, Green
Flash Le Freak, Houblon Chouffe, Urthel Hop It