“XPA stands for extra pale ale, but there’s no single definition,” says Dave Medlyn, technical brewer at Coopers Brewery. “Some brewers make it higher in alcohol and hops, while others see it as a middle ground between pale ale and IPA.”

“The main difference between XPA vs IPA comes down to balance,” says Dave. “IPA (India pale ale) is usually stronger and more bitter. XPA beer is lighter, more approachable and designed for easy drinking. At Coopers, XPA is a pale ale with lifted hop aroma, a little more alcohol (5.2% ABV), and a smooth, balanced finish.”

In Australia, XPA beer has surged in popularity because it matches local tastes. Aussies enjoy hop character, but also want beers that are refreshing and sessionable.

“XPA delivers both: bright citrus and stone-fruit hops with easy drinkability that works year-round,” says Dave Medlyn, technical brewer at Coopers Brewery. “That balance is why Coopers purple has become a favourite - bold enough to stand out, smooth enough to keep coming back to.”

No, XPA isn’t an officially recognised style in global beer guidelines. It’s a brewer-created category, born from demand for something between pale ale and IPA.

“As brewers, we like to say there is no definition of an XPA in any beer judging category,” says Dave Medlyn,
technical brewer at Coopers Brewery. “Instead, it’s up to each brewery to interpret what XPA means. For Coopers, that’s an all-malt, naturally conditioned Extra Pale Ale with hop-forward flavour and a clean, refreshing
finish.”

With its bright hop character and smooth malt backbone, Coopers XPA pairs beautifully with flavour-packed
dishes like tacos, spicy curries, or chargrilled seafood. It’s also a natural match for Aussie staples such as burgers, schnitzels, and hot chips.

“The citrus and stone-fruit notes in Coopers XPA cut through richer foods, making it a versatile beer at the table,” says Dave Medlyn, technical brewer at Coopers Brewery.

Serve Coopers XPA icy cold, poured into a clean glass to release its hop aroma and natural conditioning. Its grapefruit and citrus characters shine brightest when chilled — perfect for summer evenings, BBQs or knock-offs with mates.