The India Pale Ale were originally brewed in England as a higher hopped and higher ABV version of the English Pale Ale that was very popular in India.
Ranging in color from a pale gold to a reddish amber, the focus of the American IPA is American hops. These hop flavors can be citrusy, fruity, piney, and floral. The malt is usually a light caramel or biscuit - and very crisp and clean, in order to let the hop flavors and bitterness (which is usually moderate to high) shine through.
Usually served cool, 46-54 degrees, in a pint glass, a tumbler, or a beer mug.