Beer is one of the oldest beverages in the world, but the wide range of styles we enjoy today evolved over centuries and across continents. From the bitter bite of an IPA to the smooth depth of a stout, each beer style has a story. Knowing a little about where they came from and what makes them unique can deepen your appreciation of that cold pint in your hand. Join us this month as one of your favorite bars takes a quick trip through the history and character of some of the most popular beer styles.

IPA: Bold, Bitter, and Born from a Journey

IPA stands for India Pale Ale, a style that originated in England in the 18th century. Brewers added extra hops and alcohol to help preserve beer on long voyages to British colonies, particularly India. The result was a more bitter, aromatic ale that became popular far beyond the shipping routes. Today, IPAs have exploded in variety, from West Coast styles with bold citrusy hops to hazy New England IPAs that are softer and juicier. Love it or hate it, the IPA is a staple of modern craft beer culture.

Pilsner: Crisp, Clean, and Revolutionary

The Pilsner was born in 1842 in the Czech city of Plzeň (Pilsen). It was one of the first beers to use pale malt and cold-fermenting lager yeast, producing a golden color and crisp finish that was groundbreaking at the time. Pilsners became incredibly popular across Europe and inspired many modern lager styles. If you enjoy something light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced, thank the brewers of 19th-century Bohemia.

Stout: Rich, Roasty, and Rooted in Porters

Stouts evolved from porters, a dark beer popular with working-class drinkers in 18th-century London. Over time, stouts became known for their fuller body and roasted malt flavors, often with notes of coffee, chocolate, or even smoke. Irish dry stouts, like the iconic Guinness, brought the style to international fame. Today, stouts range from dry and drinkable to thick, sweet, and barrel-aged. 

More Styles to Explore

There are hundreds of beer styles, but a few others worth mentioning include wheat beers, known for their smooth, cloudy body and citrus notes, Belgian ales with their spicy yeast character, and sours, which bring a tart punch that challenges traditional expectations. Each one tells a different story about culture, climate, and creativity.

Stella Blu | Nashua Bars

For those times when you’d rather explore by the glass, stop by one of your favorite Nashua bars and try a rotating selection of beer styles from around the world and right here at home. Whether you’re into hop-forward IPAs, rich stouts, or easy-drinking pilsners, we’ve got a pour waiting for you!

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