Image: Water Profile for Brewing an IPA

The image is a highly detailed, landscape-oriented educational infographic that explains an ideal water profile for brewing an India Pale Ale (IPA). The composition is divided horizontally by a stylized waterline, creating an above-water and underwater perspective that visually reinforces the concept of water chemistry. At the top center, a wooden sign reads "Water Profile for Brewing an IPA," setting a rustic, craft-brewing tone. To the left, a full glass of golden IPA beer with a foamy head sits on a wooden pedestal labeled "Balanced & Hoppy Flavor," while on the right a stainless steel brewing kettle and green hop cones emphasize the brewing process and ingredients.

Above the waterline, four primary brewing minerals are presented on wooden placards, each with its chemical symbol, recommended concentration range, and functional benefit. Calcium (Ca²⁺, approximately 100 ppm) is shown as supporting enzyme activity and yeast health. Magnesium (Mg²⁺, around 10 ppm) is identified as a yeast nutrient. Sulfate (SO₄²⁻, roughly 150 ppm) is highlighted for enhancing hop bitterness, a key characteristic of IPAs. Chloride (Cl⁻, about 50–100 ppm) is noted for adding body and mouthfeel, balancing the sharpness of hop bitterness.

Below the waterline, the infographic shifts into an underwater scene with rocks, plants, bubbles, and mineral icons suspended in clear blue water. Circular bubbles contain labels for calcium, magnesium, sulfate, chloride, and bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), visually reinforcing their presence in the water. On the left side, a green sign indicates an optimal mash pH range of 5.2 to 5.6, emphasizing the importance of acidity control during brewing. On the right, a wooden sign notes bicarbonate levels below 50 ppm, explaining that low alkalinity is desirable for hop-forward beers like IPAs.

Along the bottom, additional wooden labels specify water quality constraints: low sodium (Na⁺ < 20 ppm) to avoid off-flavors, very low iron (Fe < 0.1 ppm) to prevent metallic tastes, and a strict absence of chlorine or chloramine, which can negatively affect beer flavor. A final note highlights "Pure & Clean Water," reinforcing overall water quality. The entire image blends scientific information with a friendly, illustrative craft aesthetic, making complex brewing chemistry accessible and visually engaging.

The image is related to: Fermenting Beer with Wyeast 1203-PC Burton IPA Blend Yeast