Low ABV High IBU?

[UP-Brewer]

I'm Working on a new recipe for an IPA/APA and I wanted to bounce some ideas off everyone. I am shooting for 4.9% ABV 78 IBU ale. I know this falls outside of standard guidelines for either style. I will be using light LME/DME and planning on using US-05 as my yeast. I am planning to dry hop it as well.

1- Is this insane?
2- If no should I bump up my specialty grains (thinking Cara 20 and Munich) to add more of a maltiness to help give balance to the beer or at least give something to the taste other than just bitterness.

Any thoughts would be great!!!

 

[JKaranka]

Can you get hold of One Inch Punch?
http://www.ratebeer.com/beer/tiny-rebel-one-inch-punch/258444/

 

[ncbrewer]

Just keep in mind that perceived bitterness is about the BU:GU ratio. So at the same IBU's, a lower gravity beer tastes more bitter than a higher gravity beer.

 

[DromJohn]

Take a look at NB Conundrum Session IPA.
They use a pound of Caramel 20.
I haven't bottled mine yet.

 

[UP-Brewer]

Well if they are selling kits along the same path I guess I will go for it! If all is good ill post a recipe.

 

[Calder]

I guess you are looking to make what is being called a Session IPA.

I'd start with an IPA recipe and just reduce the fermentables.

If you are looking for something like a Session IPA, I'd keep the specialty grains low (0.5 lbs) as you still want it to finish low. Start with an OG somewhere around 1.046, and design to finish around 1.008.

........... And lots and lots of hops.