Which type of beer is known for its hoppy flavor profile?

India Pale Ale (IPA) is known for its hoppy flavor profile due to the significant amount of hops used during the brewing process. Hops are the flowers of the hop plant and contribute not only to the bitterness but also to the aromatic qualities of the beer, which can include floral, citrus, and pine notes. IPAs often have higher hop content compared to other beer styles, resulting in a pronounced bitterness that can vary in intensity.

In contrast, stouts typically focus on roasted malt flavors, which can lend notes of chocolate or coffee, rather than a focus on hop characteristics. Lagers generally provide a clean, crisp taste with a more balanced profile, resulting in subdued hop flavors compared to IPAs. Wheat beers are often recognized for their light, refreshing attributes and may include fruity or spicy notes from yeast, but they do not emphasize hoppy flavors to the same degree as IPAs.