If you’ve ever stood in front of a beer fridge wondering what the difference is between a Double Dry Hopped IPA (DDH IPA) and a Double IPA (DIPA), you’re not alone. Despite the similar names, they describe completely different things. One is all about strength, while the other is all about aroma. With our latest limited edition 28 Haze Later DDH Hazy IPA arriving in early August, here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Double IPA (DIPA)?
A DIPA, takes everything you love about an IPA and turns it up a notch.
It usually has:
- Higher alcohol (typically 7.5%–10%)
- More malt to balance the hops
- Bigger bitterness
- Fuller body
- More intense flavour overall
The word double refers to the beer being amplified in almost every way.
One of Renegade’s best-loved DIPAs was Snake Oil, a beer packed with bold hop character, higher strength and plenty of flavour that became a favourite with IPA fans. No it’s not coming back for 2026, sorry…
Despite their strength, the best DIPAs remain balanced, combining powerful hop character with a malt backbone that supports rather than dominates.
What is a DDH IPA?
Double Dry Hopped doesn’t mean the beer is stronger. Instead, it describes how the hops are added.
After fermentation begins, brewers add hops directly into the beer; a process known as dry hopping. This extracts huge amounts of hop aroma without adding much bitterness.
A Double Dry Hopped IPA simply receives twice (or multiple additions) of dry hops, creating:
- Massive tropical fruit aromas
- Juicy citrus flavours
- Soft haze
- Less harsh bitterness
- An incredibly aromatic pint
Think mango, pineapple, peach, passionfruit and ripe citrus rather than sharp bitterness.
The ‘double’ in DDH refers to the amount or frequency of dry hopping, not necessarily the alcohol content. A DDH IPA can be a standard IPA, a New England IPA (NEIPA) or even a Double IPA (DIPA).
Difference between DIPAs, DDH IPAs & IPAs
DDH IPA
Refers to the hopping technique
Focuses on flavour and Aroma
Can be any ABV
May or may not be stronger than the standard IPA
DIPA
Refers to beer style and strength
Focuses on higher alcohol and bigger malt/hop balance
Usually between 7.5% – 10%+ ABV
Pretty much always stronger than a standard IPA
A beer can actually be both a Double IPA and Double Dry Hopped.
The Origins of the Styles
The DDH & Double IPAs emerged during the American craft beer revolution of the 2000s. As brewers experimented with increasingly hop-forward recipes, they sought ways to create beers that showcased even more hop aroma, flavour, and bitterness than traditional IPAs.
However, in Britain brewers were adding additional hops to casks as early as the 18th & 19th century to preserve beer and enhance aroma, the traditional India Pale Ale shipped from Britain across the sea often benefited from this technique.
Meet 28 Haze Later
Launching at the start of August, 28 Haze Later is our latest Double Dry Hopped Hazy IPA.
We’ve packed it with generous late hop additions to create huge tropical aromas, layers of juicy fruit character and the soft, hazy finish that modern IPA lovers crave.
It’s bold, fresh and intensely drinkable, exactly what you’d expect from a DDH Hazy IPA.
Like all great limited editions, it won’t be brewed again, so once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Double Dry Hopped IPA stronger?
Not necessarily. Double Dry Hopping affects aroma and flavour, not alcohol content.
Is a Double IPA more bitter?
Usually, yes. Double IPAs often have more bitterness and a richer malt backbone than standard IPAs.
What does DDH stand for?
DDH stands for Double Dry Hopped, meaning extra dry hop additions have been used to maximise hop aroma and flavour.
Which style should I choose?
If you enjoy bold tropical aromas and juicy flavours, a DDH Hazy IPA is hard to beat.
If you’re looking for something stronger with a bigger malt presence and more bitterness, a Double IPA is likely to be your style.
Ready for the haze?
If you loved Snake Oil, or simply enjoy hop-forward beers bursting with tropical character, keep an eye out for 28 Haze Later when it lands in early August.
This is a genuine limited edition release and once it’s sold through, there won’t be another batch.
Trade pre-orders are available now for delivery from w/c 3rd August. Get in touch on 01635 767090 or email sales@renegadebrewery.co.uk.
