Hop Profiles
With the amount of hops available there are dozens of description pages that list a variety of hops, but none that come close to listing them all. Here at HomeBrewStuff we have compiled as complete a list (and always updating) as possible for your use. Here you will find hop descriptions along with their alpha acids, uses, and substitutes. Cheers!
ADMIRAL
13-16% Alpha Acids • English • Bittering Hop
Said to be citrusy, orange flavored. A good compliment hop to Targets. Good dual purpose hop.
Used For: English style IPA and other ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pleasant, resinous hop aroma with hints of citrus (orange) and herbal flavors.
Substitutes: Challenger, Northdown
AHTANUM
5.7-6.3% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
This hop is used for its aromatic properties and moderate bittering. It has aromas that are citrus (grapefruit), earthy, and floral.
Used For: American Style ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include citrus grapefruit and geranium.
Substitutes: Amarillo, Cascade
8-11% Apha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Popular American mid-range alpha acid variety with a unique and distinct aroma. It has a flowery, citrus like aroma; more orange than grapefruit.
Used For: Pale Ales, IPAs, Porters
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include grapefruit, orange, lemon, melon, apricot and peach.
Substitutes: Cascade, Centennial
APOLLO
15-19% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Characterized by its exceptionally high percentage of Alpha Acids, it has excellent storage stability. It has citrus notes, with an emphasis on orange. It is resiny, and spicy.
Used For: Any beer with a big hop profile, definitely all American!
Aroma: Citrus, grapefruit, orange and pine notes.
Substitutes: Magnum, Columbus
AQUILA
6-8% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Aquila was developed in the U.S. and established in 3-acre commercial trials throughout the Northwestern US in 1988. However, due to its overly high cohumulone content, its use is considered quite limited, and it is not available commercially at this time. North American brewing giant Anheuser Busch lost interest in the variety due to its harsh bittering, which spelled a death knell for the variety’s commercial usability.
Used For: American ales
Aroma: -
Substitutes: Cluster, Galena
ARAMIS
7.9-8.3% Alpha Acids • [REGION] • Finishing Hop
Closely resembling Strisselspalt, but with higher oil and alpha content, Aramis is the first variety from the Comptoir Agricole breeding program.
Used For: Saisons, Belgian Ale, French Ale
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spicy, herbal and subtle citrus.
Substitutes: Willamette, Challenger, Ahtanum
AURORA
7-13% Alpha Acids • Slovenia • Dual Purpose Hop
A diploid hybrid of Northern Brewer and a TG seedling of unknown origin, Aurora displays an intense yet pleasant aroma in finished beers. It is also known as Super Styrian.
Used For: Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble characteristics.
Substitutes: Styrian Golding
AZACCA
14-16% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Named after the Haitian god of agriculture, Azacca® is one of a new brood of dwarf bittering hops. Descended directly from Toyomidori, Azacca®’s greater parentage also includes Summit™ and Northern Brewer. It is considered by many as being well suited to the IPA style. Even with its high alpha acids, Azacca® still works well as a dual-use hop, giving off a pleasant mix of tropical fruits kissed with citrus. On the palate this hop is particularly spicy, with mango, pineapple and some pine-like and tangerine-esque qualities. Despite being a US hop, it has been likened in nature to some New Zealand-bred varieties.
Used For: Pale Ales, IPAs
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include tropical fruits and citrus.
Substitutes: Amarillo, Citra, Delta
BANNER
9-11% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Banner didn't fare well on the commercial market. Bred from a Brewer’s Gold seedling in the 1980’s through open pollination, its first test plot was discontinued due to severe mildew problems. It was finally released along with its sibling Aquila in 1996 having initially caught the interest of goliath American brewing company Anheuser Busch. Eventually though, after several years of evaluation, it was eliminated from further testing. Banner is known to have moderately high alpha acids, a pleasant aroma and good yield but exhibits poor storability, which along with its mildew susceptibility makes it largely unviable.
Used For: Bittering with good flavor. Light and dark American lagers
Aroma: -
Substitutes: Aquila, Cluster, Galena
BITTER GOLD
12-14.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Released in 1999, Bitter Gold is a high alpha variety with excellent aroma capabilities. Its lineage includes Brewer's Gold, Bullion, Comet and Fuggle. Bitter Gold offers limited aroma when used as a bittering hop but delivers diverse stone and tropical fruit flavors in later additions.
Used For: Belgian Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pear, watermelon, stone fruit and fresh cut grass.
Substitutes: Nugget, Galena
BLANC
9-12% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Also called Hallertau Blanc, its unique character is reminiscent of Sauvignon Blanc and can be blended into the beer’s own distinctive aroma and flavour profile. Beers previously brewed with Hallertau Blanc have already made a great impression thanks to the quality of the bitterness and in particular their enhanced aroma profile. The distinctive wine character of these hops is best released by dosing it at the cold stage (dry hopping).
Used For: American Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral and fruity with passion fruit, grapefruit, pineapple, grape and lemongrass overtones.
Substitutes: Nelson Sauvin
BOADICEA
7.5-10% • English • Dual Purpose
Boadicea is a rather recent addition to the Hops family, having been released in 2004 by Horticulture Research International (HRI) at Wye College in the UK after having been successfully bred and proven for aphid resistance. As such, with also excellent resistance to wilt and down mildew, it is a natural for organic hops growing. It also has an excellent storage stability. Boadicea is a dwarf, hedgerow type of hop meaning it grows to short heights than traditional hops, yet the yield is the same making the hops easier to harvest. Its farnesene presence appears to give Boadicea some spicy character. Her alphas are low, but just enough to produce a light bodied and rounded bittering.
Used For: Pilsners, English Style Pale
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral, orchard blossom and ripe fruit.
Substitutes: Possibly Green Bullet, Cascade, or Chinook
BOBEK
3.5-7% • Slovenia • Finishing Hop
A world-renowned couplet with moderate bitterness.
Used For: Ale, Pilsner, Lager, Strong Bitter
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include intense and pleasant with floral and pine overtones.
Substitutes: Fuggle, Styrian Golding, Willamette
BRAMLING CROSS
6-8% Alpha Acids • English • Finishing Hop
Variety Bramling crossed with a male seedling from a Manitoba female. Blackcurrant, lemony aroma.
Used For: Can be good for spiced ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include strong spice, blackcurrant, loganberry and lemon.
Substitutes: Bullion, Northern Brewer and Galena
BRAVO
14-17% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Bravo (Hopsteiner 0146) is a second generation super high alpha variety that was developed by the Hopsteiner Breeding Program and released in 2006. Bravo is an excellent bittering hop that provides pleasant fruity and floral aroma characteristics.
Used For: American IPA, American Pale Ale, American Stout
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include orange, vanilla and floral.
Substitutes: Columbus
8-11% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Bred at Wye College in 1919, Brewer’s Gold is an ancestor to many major high alpha hops including Sterling, Galena, Horizon, Centennial and Nugget. It is an English variety, however American-grown Brewer’s Gold contains higher levels of alpha acids than its English counterpart.
Used for: Mainly bittering. Stouts and Dark ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include blackcurrant, fruity, and spicy.
Substitutes: Chinook, Galena, Nugget
BULLION
6.7-12.9% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Intense,black currant aroma, spicy and pungent. One of the earliest high alpha hops in the world. Raised in 1919 in England from a wild Manitoban female crossed with an English male hop.
Used for: Mainly bittering. Stouts and Dark ales
Aroma: Strong and zesty blackcurrant characteristics
Substitutes: Brewers Gold, Northern Brewer, Galena, Bramling Cross, Mt. Ranier
CALYPSO
10-12% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Calypso is a diploid aroma-type hop, originated from a cross between Hopsteiner breeding female 98005 and a Hopsteiner male derived from Nugget and USDA 19058m.
Used For: Ales, Stouts, and Barley Wines
Aroma: Pleasant fruity aroma with hints of pear and apple.
Substitutes: Cascade, Galena
5.5-9% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Originating from the USDA-ARA breeding program, Cascade is an aroma-type cultivar bred in 1956 and released in 1972. It was developed by open pollination of a Fuggle seedling. Cascade is the most popular variety in craft brewing and is known for having a unique floral, spicy and citrus character with balanced bittering potential.
Used For: All US-Style Ales, IPAs, Porters, Barley Wines, Witbier
Aroma: Medium intense floral, citrus and grapefruit tones
Substitutes: Amarillo, Centennial, Ahtanum
CASHMERE
7-9% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Cashmere was developed by Washington State University by crossing Cascade and Northern Brewer. It was first released in 2013. Cashmere really shines when used for aroma and flavor in hop-forward styles, or where the intensity of its exotic tropical notes will complement sour, fruited, or funky ales. Its respectable alpha content combined with low cohumulone lets it contribute smooth bitterness if used early in the boil.
Used For: Sours, Brett Fermentation, Saisons, IPA
Aroma: Complex and intensely fruity, with strong overtones of lemon, lime, peach, and melon. Secondary notes of coconut, lemongrass, candy, and herbs can show through in whirlpool or dry hop additions.
Substitutes: None
CELEIA
3-6% Alpha Acids • Slovenia • Dual Purpose
Celeia is the triploid offspring of a Styrian Golding, an Aurora, and a Slovenian wild hop. It has an excellently balanced profile all around and very good storage stability. It is a versatile hop, with widespread use in Lagers, Pilsners, English-style ales, and ESBs. It loves deep clay soil, and requires a large planting distance. It has not been well received by breweries and is, therefore, not grown in large quantities. Celeia is described as being pleasantly bitter and in symmetry with its aroma.
Used For: English Ales, Lagers, Pilsners, English Ales, ESBs
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble characteristics.
Substitutes: Styrian Golding
9.5-11.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Flowers and citrus most evident. A medium aroma with mid to high bittering value makes it a dual purpose choice. Released in 1990, Centennial is among the most popular hop used by US craft brewers today. The variety is sometimes called the super Cascade though its citrus aromas are lighter than those in Cascade. Acceptable for bittering.
Used For: All US-Style Ales, IPAs, Wheat beers
Aroma: Medium intense floral, citrus and grapefruit tones.
Substitutes: Cascade, Chinook, Columbus, Amarillo
CHALLENGER
6.5-9% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Mild to moderate aroma, quite spicy. One of the few recognized all-purpose hops combining moderate amounts of alpha acid with a good kettle aroma.
Used For: Popular bittering hop used primarily in the UK. British ales and lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include cedar, green tea and sweet fruit.
Substitutes: Northern Brewer, Perle
CHELAN
12-14.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Similar to Galena but with higher alpha acids, Chelan was developed by the John I Haas, Inc. breeding company and released in 1994.
Used For: American Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mild floral and citrus characteristics.
Substitutes: Galena, Nugget
12-14% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Categorized as a high alpha variety with an aroma of spicy, piney and a distinct grapefruit. This alluring aroma and a high bittering value has gained this hop full respect from craft and major brewers. The variety has a good resistance to disease but it's susceptible to powdery mildew. Cross between Petham Golding and a high alpha USDA male.
Used For: US-Style Pale Ales, IPAs, Stouts, Porters, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include grapefruit, spice, and pine.
Substitutes: Nugget, Columbus, Northern Brewer
11-13% • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Developed by Hop Breeding Company and released in 2007. Citra® HBC 394 cv. features fairly high alpha acids and total oil contents with a low percentage of co-humulone. It is tolerant to downy mildew and powdery mildew with good pickability of dense, medium sized cones. Comprised of Hallertau Mittelfrüh, US Tettnang, Brewer's Gold and East Kent Golding.
Used For: US-Style Pale Ales, IPAs, Double IPAs
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include grapefruit, melon, lime, gooseberry, passion fruit and lychee.
Substitutes: Unknown
5.5-8.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
With its well balanced bittering and aroma properties, Cluster is an excellent multipurpose hop. The variety is the oldest hop grown in the U.S and was one of a few hops that grew until the late 1970's. Cluster has a good resistance to disease.
Used For: Ales(aroma), Lagers(bittering), Stouts
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral, earthy and sweet fruit.
Substitutes: Galena, Chinook, Eroica, Nugget
COLUMBIA
6.8-11.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Selected in 1967 at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, Columbia was once grown throughout Oregon on ~300 acres, however, was discontinued in the early 80s in favor of Willamette. It is now grown on a much smaller scale. Columbia is a seedless variety with good storage stability and and small to medium cone size.
Used For: Ambers, Ales, Pale Ales, Porters and Stouts.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include earth, fruit, and "Fuggle-like"
Substitutes: Centennial, Chinook, Eroica
COLUMBUS
14-16% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Also known as CTZ (Columbus/ Tomahawk/ Zeus), Columbus is a half sister to Nugget and is a super high alpha variety. Columbus is used as a bittering hop with an intense, pungent aroma. CTZ has a high resistance to mildew and other disease. High on the bittering scale yet also valued for its oil content creates a hop that is an interesting dichotomy of sharp and herbal, suprisingly pleasant aroma.
Used For: US IPAs, US Pale Ales, Stouts, Barley Wines, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include black pepper, licorice, curry and subtle citrus.
Substitutes: Centennial, Chinook, Galena, Nugget, Millennium
COMET
9-11% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Selected in 1961 and released in 1974 by the USDA, Comet was originally utilized for its high alpha acid content and adapability to growing conditions in the Yakima Valley. Commercial production ceased in the early 1980s in favor of newer super-alpha hops, however, Comet has made a recent comeback, finding favor with some brewers in dual purpose applications for its subtle and unique, "wild American" aroma.
Used For: Most ales and lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include subtle, "wild American," grassy and grapefruit.
Substitutes: Galena
3.5-5.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Crystal is a triploid variety with derivations from Hallertau MF, Cascade, and Northern Brewer. Primarily grown in Oregon, its aroma is mild and pleasant with a delicate blend of spices and flowers.The variety is versatile and wildly popular.
Used For: Lagers, Kolsch, ESBs, Pilsners, IPAs, Pale Ales, Belgian Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include woody and green.
Substitutes: Mt. Hood, Hersbrucker, Strisselspalt, Liberty, Hallertau
DELTA
5.5-7% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Delta (Hopsteiner 04188) is a new aroma variety that was developed by the Hopsteiner Breeding Program and released in 2009. It is a cross between Fuggle and a male variety derived from Cascade. It shows good tolerance to downy mildew.
Used For: American Pale ales, American IPA, experiment with new styles
Aroma: A mild and pleasant aroma that is slightly spicy with a hint of citrus.
Substitutes: Fuggle, Willamette
DR.RUDI
10-12% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed at the New Zealand Horticultural Research Centre (now New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research) and released in 1976 as "Super Alpha", Dr. Rudi is a triploid variety bred from New Zealand Smoothcone. Its name was changed to Dr. Rudi in 2012. Dr. Rudi works well in single-hopped beers or in conjunction with multiple aroma varieties.
Used For: Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include resin, pine, and lemongrass.
Substitutes: Green Bullet
EAST KENT GOLDING (EKG)
4.5-6.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
A traditional English hop that has been used in kettle and dry hopping.
Used For: Classic English ales, kettle hopping, dry hopping, spicy flavor. All English-style beers (Ales, ESB, Bitter), Belgian-style Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include smooth and delicate with floral, lavender, spice, honey, earth, lemon and thyme overtones.
Substitutes: Goldings (British Columbia), Fuggle, Willamette.
14-16% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
A relatively new variety with consistent performance, quickly making it popular for hop-forward styles or beers with complex flavor profiles. Tasting notes commonly specify aromas of watermelon, pear, candy, or stone fruit. There is often an undertone of citrus, and sometimes an identifiable fresh-cut-grass taste.
Used For: US-Style Pale Ales, IPAs
Aroma: Pear, watermelon, and stone fruit notes.
Substitutes: Citra, Nelson Sauvin, Rakau
ELLA
13.3-16.3% Alpha Acids • Australian • Dual Purpose Hop
More subtle in character, Ella (previously known as Stella) packs less of an upfront punch than her big sister Galaxy, but is no less of a star. In lower doses, Ella can display floral and subtle spice notes, such as star anise, which is best appreciated in lagers or pilsners. With larger additions or when dry hopping, Ella imparts distinct tropical flavors which can be used to offset robust malt and yeast characters in many styles.
Used For: Lagers, Pilsners
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinct grapefruit and tropical flavor.
Substitutes: Perle, Palisade
Equinox (HBC 366)
13-15.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Developed by Hop Breeding Company and released in 2014, HBC 366 features pronounced aroma characteristics and extremely high oil content. This variety bursts out of the spring soil in vibrant yellow and gradually matures to a deep green color by fall harvest.
Used For: IPAs, Pales, Session IPAs, single hop recipes.
Aroma: A pronounced aroma profile with citrus, tropical fruit, floral and herbal characteristics. Specific descriptors include lemon, lime, papaya, apple, and green pepper.
Substitutes: Citra, Galaxy
EROICA
7.3-14.9% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Aroma is quite strong, but not unpleasant. Better aroma than many high alpha acid hops. Suitable for general bittering. Bred by open pollination of Brewer's Gold.
Used For: Pale ales, dark ales and Stouts
Aroma: A spiky fruity aroma
Substitutes: Brewer's Gold, Chinook, Cluster, Galena, Nugget
Eureka!
17-20% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Hüller Bitterer has the distinction of being the first wilt resistant variety to come from the Hüll program. Known for its clean, bittering character. It has been replaced by other wilt resistant varieties, particularly Perle.
Used For: Bitters, German Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Falvors of citrus, peach and pine, aromas of stone fruit and mandarin
Substitutes: -
FALCONERS FLIGHT 7C'S
9-10% Alpha Acids • Premium Blend • Dual Purpose Hop
This proprietary pellet blend is comprised of seven varieties of "C" hops and is perfect for any Northwest-style IPA. Each hop has been hand selected for its superior aromatic qualities, imparting distinct tropical, citrus, floral, lemon and grapefruit tones.
Used For: US-Style IPAs, Pale Ales, Lagers, IBAs, Black IPAs, APAs
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include strong fruit and citrus characteristics with layers of spicy and earthy overtones.
Substitutes: Citra, Simcoe, Amarillo, Falconer's Flight, Cascade, Centennial, Chinook, Columbus, Cluster, Crystal, and many more
11-12% Alpha Acids • Premium Blend • Dual Purpose Hop
Tropical Fruit, Citrus, floral, lemon and Grapefruit character. Hop Union has hand selected the best of the best Northwest hops, chosen for aroma and flavor qualities and blended them into one AWESOME pelletized hop bomb.
Used For: US-Style IPAs, Pale Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinct tropical, floral, lemon and grapefruit characteristics.
Substitutes: Citra, Simcoe, Amarillo, Sorachi Ace, Summit, Cascade
FIRST GOLD
6.5-10% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred at Wye College in 1995, First Gold is a cross between WGV (Whitbread Golding Variety) and a dwarf male. It features many of the flavor characteristics of WGV and has found favor in both general kettle and late or dry hopping applications.
Used For: English style ales, porters, fruit beers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include smooth, with tangerine, orange marmalade, apricot, geranium and magnolia.
Substitutes: Any Golding variety
FUGGLE (UK)
3-5.6% Alpha Acids • English • Finishing Hop
The most revered and famous English hop, known for its full bodied flavor in traditional ales. Long associated with English ale brewing, UK Fuggle hops were once a predominant hop in England, now reserved for aroma use in conjunction with high alpha types.
Used For: English Ales, Belgian Ales, ESBs, Bitters, Lagers, Lambics
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include delicate and pleasant mint, grass and floral tones.
Substitutes: Fuggle (US), Willamette, Styrian Golding
4.0-5.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Discovered as a chance seedling in 1861 and propagated by Richard Fuggle in Kent, England in 1875, Fuggle was once the most prominent English hop. It accounted for 78% of production in 1949. The variety is now grown in the United States, primarily in Oregon, and displays slightly stronger characteristics than the English version. Fuggle is often compared to, and used in conjunction with Golding hops.
Used For: Any English-Style beer, US Ales, Lambics
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mild, wood, grass, and mint.
Substitutes: UK Fuggle, Willamette, Styrian Golding, East Kent Golding
GALAXY
13.5-14.8% Alpha Acids • Australian • Dual Purpose Hop
Australian high alpha dual purpose hop with a big unique aroma, described as a combination of citrus and passionfruit. Used in Widmer Galaxy Hopped Barley Wine.
Used For: Good for bittering with tropical fruit flavors and very fragrant. Pale Ales, IPA's, Barley Wines
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinct passionfruit and clean citrus aromas.
Substitutes: Simcoe, Citra, Amarillo any IPA type Hop
12-14% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by the USDA breeding program in Idaho in 1968 and released in 1978, Galena is a high alpha variety with increasingly popular aroma characteristics. It has moderate tolerance to downy mildew and is susceptible to powdery mildew, but has good pickability of medium size, compact cones.
Used For: Often used as a late addition for intense citrus and tropical flavors. American ales, stouts and lagers. Suitable for all beer styles.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include sweet fruits, pear, pineapple, blackcurrant, grapefruit, lime, gooseberry and spicy wood.
Substitutes: Brewer's Gold, Columbus, Nugget
5-6% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Puprose Hop
Released in 2000 by Washington State University, Glacier is an offspring of French Elsasser, Brewer's Gold and Northern Brewer. It was selected for its good yield potential and low co-humulone, providing smoothness and balanced bitterness in beer.
Used For: Pale Ales, ESBs, English-Style Pale Ales, Porters, Stouts
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include plum, blackberry and wood.
Substitutes: Fuggle, Styrian Golding, Willamette
4-6% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Golding hops consist of a group of traditional English aroma varieties which have been cultivated since 1790. The cultivar originated in England and were name after villages in East Kent (Petham, Rothersham, Canterbury, Eastwell). US Golding is the Canterbury strain. It is susceptible to downy mildew, but has good pickability of small size, moderately compact cones.
Used For: All English-style beers (Ales, ESB, Bitter), Belgian-style Ales, Barley Wines
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include delicate and sweet floral.
Substitutes: UK East Kent Golding, Fuggle, Willamette, Styrian Golding
GREEN BULLET
11-14% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose
Green Bullet is a triploid alpha variety bred by open cross pollination of the New Zealand "Smoothcone" variety. Used extensively as a utility brew house workhorse and found in breweries across the world. This “go to” hop is a traditional bittering type that now finds applications throughout the brewery from late additions through the hop back/ whirlpool and dry hopping.
Used For: Lagers, some ales and stouts
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spicy, dried fruit characters; high levels of floral oil that complements and balances the piney resinous hop character.
Substitutes: Liberty, Hallertauer, Mt. Hood
HALLERTAU BLANC
9-12% Alpha Acids • German •Aroma
Used for aroma, particularly whirlpool and dry hopping to take full advantage of the very high myrcene fraction. With its pronounced tropical profile, Hallertau Blanc has strong affinity for many of the same styles as southern hemisphere hops.
Used For: IPA, Belgian Ales, Wheat Beer, and Brett Fermentaions
Aroma: Moderate to strong featuring pineapple, gooseberry, white grape, fresh lemongrass stalk, and passionfruit. Reminiscent of many recent Southern Hemisphere varieties, but with a cleaner, less “dank” profile. .
Substitutes: Nelson Sauvin
3.5-5.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Named for its origins in the Hallertauer region of Germany, this is a noble aroma hop with ever-so-subtle flower and spice fragrances defining its “über alles” superiority.
Used For: Lagers, Pilsners, Weizens, Beglain-Style Ales, Altbier, Lambic, Kölsch, Munich Helles
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble, earthy, and herbal.
Substitutes: Mt. Hood, Liberty, Crystal, German Hallertau, German Tradition
HALLERTAU HALLERTAUER
3.5-5% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Traditionally a superior German aroma hop. Mild to semi-strong aroma , the most popular variety. Excellent flavor.
Used For: Versatile bittering and finishing. Wheats, Altbiers, Pilseners, Belgian ales, American and German lagers.
Aroma: Mild with distinct floral, hop and citrus tones.
Substitutes: Mt. Hood, Liberty, Crystal.
HALLERTAU MITTELFRUH
3-5.5% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
This classic German aroma hop is often associated with Bavarian-style lager beers and distinguished by an intense, pleasantly-harmonic bitterness. At one time, this was the major Hallertau landrace variety with a highly acclaimed aroma profile.
Used For: Good all around bittering and finishing. Stock ales, Altbiers, Belgian ales, and Continental style lagers. Pilsner, Bock, Lager, Wheat
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mild, yet spicy, with floral and citrus tones.
Substitutes: Any Hallertau, Liberty, Vanguard, German Tradition
HALLERTAUER
6.5-8.5% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred from the German Hallertau Mittelfruh, this aroma hop is characterized by woodsy, citrusy notes and a clean taste that has staying power. Higher alpha makes it an acceptable bittering hop as well.
Used For: Organic Pilsner, Lager, German-style beers
Aroma: Earthy, woodsy, and citrus notes
Substitutes: Hallertau Mittelfruh
HELGA
5.4-7.3% Alpha Acids • Australian • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred in 1986 and formerly known as Southern Hallertau, Helga is a descendant of Hallertau Mittelfrüh. Its brewing characteristics resemble that of its parent, however it demonstrates a forgiving and refined character in a variety of beer styles and hop applications.
Used For: English Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pleasant, noble characteristics.
Substitutes: Hallertau
HERALD
11-13% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purposse Hop
Herald Hops is a dual use hops that is appropriate for anytime throughout the brewing process. With an alpha acid rating at 11.9%-12.8%, Herald is known for its clean, strong bitterness in beer. At the same time one of the notable characters is the citrus bouquet, with notes of orange and grapefruit. This aroma comes from the high composition of myrcene oil. This variety has relatively high co-humulone, which some brewers shy away from.
Used For: Dark Ales, Golden Ales, Pale Ales, Strong Bitters
Aroma: Notes of orange and grapefruit.
Substitutes: Pioneer
HERKULES
12-17% Alpha Acids • German • Bittering Hop
A newer German hop, Herkules was bred from a cross between Hallertau Taurus and a Hull male, and released by the Hull Hop Research Center in 2005. Though Herkules offers a unique aroma of spicy, pine, and peppery notes, this varietal is most commonly used as a bittering agent in brews due to its high alpha content. Provides a strong bittering quality in German style Ales and Lagers. The combination of intense flavor and bittering makes Herkules hops a popular brewing ingredient.
Used For: German Ales, German Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include robust hoppy with some citrus and melon.
Substitutes: Taurus, Warrior
HERSBRUCKER
1.5-4% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
A landrace variety originating from the Hersbruck region of Southern Germany, Hersbrucker has expanded and is now widely grown throughout the Hallertau and Spalt regions. It displays a delicate aroma profile that is often compared to other noble varieties.
Used For: Aroma and flavor. German ales and lagers.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include hay, tobacco and orange.
Substitutes: Hallertau, Mt. Hood, Liberty, Spalt
HORIZON
8.8-12% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred in Oregon in 1970 and released in 1997, Horizon is a descendant of Brewer's Gold and half-sister to Nugget. Its low co-humulone is similar to noble varieties and provides smoothness to beer, however alpha acid levels can reach as high as 12%. Horizon can be utilized in every stage of the brewing process.
Used For: US-Style Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral bouquet and spicy.
Substitutes: Magnum
6.9-7.5% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Huell Melon is Huell‘s new cultivated variety, newly licensed in 2012. Huell Melon makes a great impression with its pleasant fruity character and subtly sweet aromas. Huell Melon is suitable for use in both top-fermented and bottom-fermented beers. Its distinctively mild yet fruity character can be individually tailored to a beer‘s own aroma and flavour profile. Beers previously brewed with Huell Melon have already made a great impression thanks to the quality of the bitterness and in particular their enhanced aroma profile. The distinctive fruity character of these hops is best released by dosing it at the cold stage (dry hopping).
Used For: Belgian Ales, Hefeweizens
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinctive honeymoon melon and strawberry.
Substitutes: Belma, Jarrylo
HÜLLER
4-6% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Hüller Bitterer has the distinction of being the first wilt resistant variety to come from the Hüll program. Known for its clean, bittering character. It has been replaced by other wilt resistant varieties, particularly Perle.
Used For: Bitters, German Ales, Lagers
Aroma: -
Substitutes: -
IDAHO 7
13-15% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by Jackson Hop Farm in Wilder ID, first released in 2015. Primarily aroma and dry hopping due to its potent aroma and flavor, but high enough alpha acids to contribute good bitterness. Excellent as a single hop or part of a blend for IPA, pale ale, and hop-forward American wheat beers.
Used For: IPA, Pale Ale, Hop forward
Aroma: Juicy tropical fruit and citrus (think apricot, orange, red grapefruit, papaya) with big notes of resiny pine and hints of black tea.
Substitutes: -
JARRYLO
15-17% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred by the American Dwarf Hop Association, Jarrylo is named after the Slavic God of Vegetation, Fertility, and Springtime. Jarrylo's aromas can be classified as unique in the sense that along with its orange, strong lemon lime, and a clean, bright white wine characteristics, it differs from Citra and other citrus scented hops. Brewers tend to use this hop more as a finishing hop but its high alpha acids can give way to a clean bitterness if used early on.
Used For: Wheat Beers, Saisons, Pale Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include clean bright white wine, strong lemon lime, orange, pear, and mild spice.
Substitutes: Motueka, Nelson Sauvin, Mosaic
KOHATU
6-7% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research hop breeding program and released in 2011, Kohatu is a descendant of Hallertau Mittelfrüh. It works well in single hop applications and is described as having intense fruit characteristics.
Used For: Belgian Ales, Wheat Beers, Blonde Ales, IPAs, Pale Ales
Aroma: Kohatu hops have aroma descriptors include fresh and intense tropical fruit characters and an excellent finish and bitterness.
Substitutes: Wai-iti, Motueka
5-7% Alpha Acids • United States • Aroma Hop
The name truly says it all. Lemondrop offers a "unique lemon-citrus character with a pleasant aroma." The bright citrus and subtle herbaceous notes are perfect for sessionable beers. While ales tend to bring out her sweeter side, Lemondrop is delicate and refined enough for quality lagers.
Used For: American Pale Ale, Saison, IPA, Belgian Ale, Wheat Beer
Aroma: Lemondrop hops offer strong citrus, floral, fruity, herbal, lemon, mint, green tea, light melon aromas.
Substitutes: Cascade, Motueka, Liberty, Manderina Baveria, Centennial
LIBERTY
4-5.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Bred in 1983, Liberty is an extension of the Hallertau hop family. It is a half-sister to Ultra, Mt. Hood and Crystal. Liberty demonstrates some tolerance to downy mildew, is susceptible to powdery mildew and has small size cones that can be difficult to harvest.
Used For: US Lagers, German Lagers, Pilsners, Bocks, Kölsch, Wheats
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble, delicate, floral boquet and spice.
Substitutes: US or German Hallertau, Mt. Hood, Crystal
LORAL
11.3-12.2% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by Hop Breeding Company and released in 2016, Loral HBC 291 has a noble heritage that straddles the fence between old and new world hop aromatics. It has the ability to complement all beer styles, making it a very versatile hop in the brewery. Loral has been described as pleasant with floral, citrus, peppery and some dark fruit characteristics.
"HBC 291 is the perfect hop when you want an American take on noble hop character: floral, spicy, mint, herbal & slight eucalyptus all in one - Jeremy Marshall, Lagunitas
Used For: Ability to compliment all beer styles
Aroma: Very pleasant, floral, peppery, citrus aroma with some dark fruit character.
Substitutes: -
LUBLIN
3-4.5% Alpha Acids • Polish • Finishing Hop
Also known as Lubelski. Noble aroma hop. Renowned variety in brewing world. Low Alpha. Used for light bittering, flavoring, aroma and dry hopping. Very well known and popular with Belgian brewers. Widely believed to belong to the Saaz family. It is grown in Poland since 1964. Pure original Polish thoroughbred.
Used For: European Lagers
Aroma: Distinctive, very refreshing characters of spice and flowers.
Substitutes: Czech Saaz, Tettnang
MAGNUM (GR)
11-16% Alpha Acids • German • Bittering Hop
Also known as Hallertau Magnum. Bred at the Hop Research Center in Hüll in 1980 and released in 1993, Magnum is a daughter of Galena. It is a high alpha variety with some spice and fruit characteristics.
Used For: All Ales and Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include apple and pepper.
Substitutes: Magnum (US), Nugget, Taurus
12-15.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
A German thoroughbred with limited Pacific Northwest plantings. Prized for its high bittering value, the aromatic nature is one of spice and citrus, but is minimal compared to its big bittering. Magnum has an excellent tolerance to disease, making it a popular choice for hop farmers.
Used For: All Ales and Lagers
Aroma: Magnum is a bittering hop with no distinct aroma characteristics.
Substitutes: Galena, German Magnum, Horizon
MANDARINA BAVARIA
7-10% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Mandarina Bavaria is a fairly new hop, grown in Hull, Germany. It has only been available to brewers since 2012. Its lineage is the Cascade hop and is Germany’s answer to the fruit-forward New World hops like Citra and Galaxy. Mandarina imparts fantastic Satsuma mandarin orange flavor. Used more as a finishing hop more than a bittering hop.
Used For: Mandarina Bavaria is suitable for getting a sensory differentiation of top-fermenting beers, dark beers and for all kind of specialty brews.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include fruity and citrus, specifically distinct tangerine and citrus flavors.
Substitutes: Cascade
MEDUSA
3.5-5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Medusa™ delivers strong flavor and aroma characteristics of intense guava, melon, apricot and citrus fruit. Along with these highly desirable aroma and flavor characteristics, it comes in with low alpha levels. Excellent as an aroma hop in IPA’s, Pale Ales and anything that is looking for strong aromatics. Probably one of the most striking features of this hops is it’s multi-headed cone; it adds to the allure and story of Medusa™, truly a unique hop that is sure to become the talk of the industry. .
Used For: Hop forward Ales, Lagers, Fruit Beers, Belgians
Aroma: guava, melon, apricot, lemon-lime, and subtle alfalfa.
Substitutes: None
MERIDIAN
6-7% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Grown on the Goschie Farm in the Willamette Valley, Meridian is an aroma variety whose characteristics have been described as sweet lemon, mixed berry, tropical fruit, and cool mint. Part of Meridian's uniqueness comes from its ability to complement flavors of other hops very well. A versatile hop variant that shows promise in single hopped pale ales and IPAs, both as a late kettle addition or dry hop.
Used For: Belgian Ales, Pale Ales, Lagers, IPAs
Aroma: Lemon, mixed berry, tropical fruit, and mint.
Substitutes: Citra, Glacier, Centennial
MERKUR
12-14% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred at the Hop Research Institute in Hüll and registered in 2001, Merkur was the first mildew-resistant hop variety from the research center. It is a cross between Magnum and German experimental variety 81/8/13. It is a high alpha variety with low co-humulone oil percentages. In some dual purpose applications, Merkur displays subtle earth and citrus notes.
Used For: IPAs, Lagers, Belgian Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include sugar, pineapple and mint.
Substitutes: German Magnum, German Taurus, German Tradition
MILLENNIUM
15.5-18.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Bred by the John I. Haas breeding program and released in 2000, Millennium is a super-alpha variety with mild, herbal aromas. It is tolerant to downy mildew and powdery mildew, and has good pickability of medium size cones.
Used For: American Style Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include resin, floral, toffee and pear.
Substitutes: Nugget, Columbus
11.5-13.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Developed by Hop Breeding Company and released in 2012, Mosaic® contains high alpha content and features a unique and complex aroma profile that translates favorably into a variety of beer styles. It is a daughter of Simcoe® YCR 14 and a Nugget derived male. Mosaic® is named in honor of the artistic assortment of aromas and flavors it is capable of presenting.
Used For: US-Style Pale Ales, IPAs, Double IPAs
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include blueberry, tangerine, papaya, rose, blossoms, and bubble gum.
Substitutes: Citra, Simcoe
6.5-7.5% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred as part of the Hops with a Difference programme, Motueka is an excellent hop in many applications from first kettle additions through late gifting. This hop offers a unique aroma and flavour profile suitable for producing bigger styles. Excellent when employed in multiple additions from a single hop bill and sits well on the palate to balance specialty malt sweetness. It is an excellent variety for a wide range of styles from Saison through to Pilsners. It is extremely versatile in the brewery.
Used For: European Lagers, Belgian and English Ales, Pilsners
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinctive fresh crushed citrus, "Mojito" lime character, lively lemon and lime tones with background hints of tropical fruit.
Substitutes: Saaz (US), SterlinG
4-6.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Bred in 1983 and released from the USDA breeding program in Oregon in 1989, Mt. Hood is a triploid aroma type cultivar with similarities to German Hallertau and German Hersbrucker. It is tolerant to downy mildew with good pickability of medium size, compact cones. Mt. Hood is named after the famous Oregon volcano.
Used For: US-Style and German-Style Ales and Lagers, Pilsners, Bocks, Altbier, Munich Helles, Wheat
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include herbal, pungent and spicy.
Substitutes: German Hallertau, German Hersbrucker, Liberty, Crystal
RAINIER
5-7% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Like Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier is named for one of the huge, glorious, dormant Pacific Rim volcanoes in Washington State. The Mt. Rainier variety is bred from a Magnum and a USDA male. Bred by Oregon State University, Mt. Rainier is a dual purpose variety with noble aroma characteristics. It is similar to the classic German variety, Hallertau Mittelfrüh, but features more bittering strength.
Used For: Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble, licorice and floral bouquet.
Substitutes: Fuggle, Hallertauer
12-13% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Described to have a white wine fruitiness of "crushed gooseberries".A hop that requires judicious application in the brew house, this truly unique dual-purpose variety can be used to produce big punchy Ales as well as subtle yet bitter Lagers. The fruitiness may be a little overpowering for the un-initiated, however those with a penchant for bold hop character will find several applications for this true brewer's hop.
Used For: US-Style Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinctive "New World" white wine characters; fruitiness with fresh crushed gooseberry and grape infused flavors.
Substitutes: Motueka, Riwaka
NEWPORT
10.12.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Bred in 1992 by Oregon State University and released in 1992 through the USDA, Newport is a descendant of the classic bittering variety, Magnum. It offers high alpha acid, co-humulone and myrcene content, offering more distinct aroma characteristics than its parent. Newport is resistant to downy mildew and powdery mildew and has good pickability of medium to large size, loose cones. Widely used by Rogue Brewing from Newport, Oregon
Used For: Virtually any style
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include earth, citrus, wine and balsamic.
Substitutes: Brewer's Gold, Fuggle, Galena, Magnum, Nugget
NORTHDOWN
7.5-9.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Similar to Northern Brewer, but with a better flavor and aroma than domestic NB; A clean bittering hop.
Used For: General purpose bittering, flavor and aroma for heavier ales. Porters.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pleasant spice, cedar and pine characteristics with hints of floral and berry flavors.
Substitutes: Northern Brewer, Target
NORTHERN BREWER (GR)
6-10% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Originally bred in England in 1934, Northern Brewer is a cross between Canterbury Golding and a male seedling of Brewer's Gold. It was originally grown in the North of England, but has become one of the main varieties in the Hallertau region of Germany. Northern Brewer displays pleasant pine and mint characteristics in dual purpose brewing applications.
Used For: European, English, and American Ales and Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mint, pine and grass.
Substitutes: American Northern Brewer, Brewers Gold, Chinook
8-10% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
US grown variety of the English hop developed in 1934, ancestor of the Canterbury Golding.A true dual-purpose hop containing moderate amounts of alpha acids combined with an acceptable aroma profile. Neutral, clean aroma, woody with evergreen and mint overtones and slightly higher-than-average bittering value.
Used For: Porters, Ales, Kolsch, Munich Helles, ESBs, German Lagers, Steam beers,
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include evergreen, wood and mint.
Substitutes: Galena, Perle, Magnum, Chinook, German Northern Brewer
13-16% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Strong heavy and herbal, spicy aroma and high bittering value (along with desirable growing traits) has brought this hop variety to the forefront of the industry. This hop has become increasingly popular for its herbal aromas with a pear and peach note.
Used For: Ales, Stouts, Barley Wines, Saisons, Biere de Garde
Aroma: Mild, pleasant, herbal aromas.
Substitutes: Galena, Magnum, Columbus
OLYMPIC
10.6-13.8% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Released for commercial production in 1983, Olympic is a descendant of Brewer's Gold, Fuggle and East Kent Golding. It is primarily used as a bittering hop, however some subtle citrus and spice aroma characteristics have been noted.
Used For: Mainly bittering. Stouts and Dark ales.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include citrus and spicy.
Substitutes: Brewers Gold, Chinook, Galena.
OMEGA
9-11% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Originated in England in the mid 1980's. Resistant to Verticillium Wilt but had too low of a yield to interest even its Wye College developers. It was produced commercially for a short period, and was said to have a pleasant European aroma. It got its name because it was the swan song of Dr. R. A. Neve before leaving his post as head of the hop section at Wye College.
Used For: Lagers, ales, stouts
Aroma: Pleasant European aromas.
Substitutes: Any high alpha hop
OPAL
5-8% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred by the Hüll Institute in Germany and registered in 2001. It has a complex background with some aroma hop. The oil profile is Hallertau-like. Storage stability is average. Beer made with Opal tends to have a smooth, pleasant bitterness. In general, this beer lends itself to several German-style beers, and imparts peppery, herbal and hoppy flavors as well as citrusy, floral aromas.
Used For: Belgian Ales, Hefeweizens, Helles, Lagers, Pilsners
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spice, pepper, citrus and an even dispersal of fruity, floral and herbal.
Substitutes: East Kent Golding, Styrian Golding, Tettnanger
ORION
8-9% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Orion is a dual-use hop that is not widely produced, and mostly relegated to Germany. Its pleasant European bittering and aroma qualities have made it popular for German Helles-type beers, which were originally brewed to compete with Czech Pilz. It has a very low cohumulone content and high myrcene. The other oils are in fair balance. This variety is not easy to find commercially.
Used For: German ales and lagers
Aroma: -
Substitutes: Northern Brewer, Perle
PACIFICA
5-6% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Finishing Hop
A triploid aroma type developed through the HortResearch, New Zealand Hop Breeding programme, Pacifica brings something of a blend of new and old-world taste descriptors to the brewers' forum. It is ideally suited to traditional German lager styles but is finding wider application to a new generation through the international craft market's insatiable thirst for Pale Ale.
Used For: Pale ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include a signature citrus "orange zest" marmalade; classic Hallertau characteristics with some floral notes.
Substitutes: Hallertau
13.5-15% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Bittering Hop
A triploid alpha type developed through the New Zealand Hop breeding program, Pacific Gem fills the brew house with enticing aromas during kettle addition and has been described as producing oaken flavors with a distinct blackberry aroma. It is typically used as a first hop addition and makes its presence felt through an excellent tempered bitterness and flavor while later additions deliver citrus and pine aroma notes. Pacific Gem is a good all purpose hop that delivers quality bitterness along with flavor and aromas. It is excellent in international lagers and can also be used in IPA’s and other big styles.
Used For: Organic Pale Ales, IPAs, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spicy black pepper and berry fruit aroma characteristics; some brewers have noted delicate blackberry, floral or oak tones.
Substitutes: Cluster, Magnum, Galena
PACIFIC JADE
12-14% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research hop breeding program and released in 2004, Pacific Jade is a cross of New Zealand First Choice (a relative of the Late Cluster) and a Saaz male. It is suited for use as a bittering hop but also delivers bold citrus and spice aroma characteristics.
Used For: Lagers, full-bodied ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include fresh citrus and complex spice characters; some bold herbal aromas and hints of black pepper.
Substitutes: Hallertau
5.5-9.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Bred by the Yakima Chief Ranches, Palisade is an aroma variety with moderate bittering properties. Palisade is used as a duel purpose hop and has a good resistance to powdery and downy mildew. Non-aggressive, smooth hop flavor with a fruity, non-citrusy aroma more characteristic of english style Pale ales.
Used For: English and US-Style Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include apricot, grass and clean floral characteristics.
Substitutes: Willamette, Glacier
Perle (GR)
4-9% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Perle Hops was bred by the Hull Hop Research Institute in Germany from a cross between Northern Brewer and 63/5/27M. Perle Hops was introduced in 1978 is one of the most popular varieties grown in Germany, as this variety is used widely in commercial beers around the region. Perle has done well due to its versatility and resistance to wilt, mildew, and disease.
Used For: Kölsch, Lagers, Pilsners
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include herbal and spicy with delicate floral, fruit and mint tones.
Substitutes: Northern Brewer (US & German), Perle (US)
7-9.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
A palate-pleaser with its moderate,pleasant, minty clean bittering qualities and refreshing, spicy "green hop" aroma. Bred at the Hop Research Institute in Hüll and released in 1978, Perle is a cross between Northern Brewer and 63/5/27M. It is tolerant to most diseases and is grown in both Germany and the United States. Perle is known for adding a traditional, German-like quality to beer.
Used For: Pale Ales, Porters, Stouts, Lagers, Weizen, Altbier, Barley Wines, Kolsch
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral and spicy
Substitutes: German Perle, German and US Northern Brewer, Cluster, Galena
PHOENIX
8-12% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
This variety can add some gusto to beers needing a hop kick. It is compared to Challenger Hops which has some spice to it. The aroma from Phoenix hops is tempered with an English style about it. The farnesene oil registers in this hops variety at 1.0%-1.4%, which itself is known for aromas such as magnolia flowers, citrusy, green, and woody. These notes are more subdued after blending with the moderate composition of the other essential oils.
Used For: English ales including porters, stouts, ESBs, and bitters.
Aroma: Chocolate, pine, molasses, floral
Substitutes: UK Challenger, UK Northdown
PILGRIM
9-13% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Pilgrim was released in 2000 by the Horticulture Research Institute at The College of St. Gregory and St. Marin at Wye (Wye College). It is a sibling to both First Gold and Herald, although both of these are dwarf varieties and Pilgrim is not. This variety is synonymous with Wye Pilgrim. Often compared to UK Target, Pilgrim performs well as a replacement for high alpha or dual purpose hops.
Used For: Enlish Pale Ales, Nut Brown Ales, Stouts
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include distinct fruit and spice characteristics with pleasant lemon, grapefruit, pear and berry flavors.
Substitutes: Challenger, Pioneer, Challenger
PILOT
8.5-11.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred at Wye College and released in 2001, Pilot is a result of open pollination of Pioneer. It is known for its distinct marmalade flavor and complete aroma profile being distinctively different than other UK varieties.
Used For: American Ales, English Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include lemon, spice and marmalade flavor.
Substitutes: Galena
PIONEER
8-10.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
New dwarf variety with clean bitterness and mild English aroma.
Used For: English Ales, ESBs, and bitters.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pleasant citrus (lemon and grapefruit) tones and hints of herbal, cedar flavors.
Substitutes: Yeoman, Herald, Omega
POLARIS
18-23% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred at the Hop Research Institute in Hüll and released in 2012, Polaris was commercialized as a new, German variety in response to growing demand from the craft beer industry for distinct flavor profiles. It features extremely high alpha content along with intense mint flavors.
Used For: Ales, Pale Ales, Stouts
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mint, pineapple and menthol.
Substitutes: Herkules
PREMIANT
7-10% Alpha Acids • Czech Republic • Dual Purpose Hop
Czech Premiant is moderately bittering with a low cohumulone ratio, making it the perfect neutral bittering agent, especially for Pilsners. It is a Saaz-derived hop that would have made the Gauls proud since it’s nearly a requirement for Belgian Pilsners, and is great in Belgian, French, and German Ales, as well as a whole host of other beer and ale varieties.
Used For: Pilsners, Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pleasant and mild.
Substitutes: Styrian Golding, Saaz
PRIDE OF RINGWOOD
8.6-10.5% Alpha Acids • Australian • Bittering Hop
Quite pronounced aroma but not unpleasant, citrus-like. At the time of release in 1965 it was the highest alpha hop in the world. Closely associated with such famous beers as Foster's Lager. Predominantly used for early kettle additions.
Used For: Predominantly bittering but with interesting aromatic qualities. British ales, Australian- style ales and lagers.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pronounced and pleasant with cedar, oak and herbal tones.
Substitutes: Centennial, Galena, Cluster
PROGRESS
6-7.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop Hop
Bred at Wye College in 1951 and released in 1964, Progress is a cross between WGV (Whitbread Golding Variety) and a wild, American male hop. It was originally introduced as an alternative to Fuggle, but showcases a slightly sweeter aroma.
Used For: Widely used for real cask ales. English and Scottish ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include grass, mint, sweet, honey, and blackcurrant.
Substitutes: Goldings and Fuggle
RAKAU
10-11% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Re-released in 2007 from the New Zealand hop breeding program, Rakau is often described as “the whole orchard.” It is often used in New World styles where brash fruity character and big but well constructed bitterness is desired. Rakau performs best when used in combination of late additions and dry hopping.
Used For: IPAs, Belgian Ales, Pale Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include stone fruit and fig characteristics; fresh orchard fruits, specifically apricot with some resinous pine needle characteristics are noted.
Substitutes: Amarillo, Summit
RIWAKA
4.5-6.5% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Finishing Hop
A triploid aroma type bred during the development of New Zealand Hops “Hops with a Difference” programme, Riwaka is a quintessential New Zealand hop variety. The pure weight of the oil character experienced during selection carries right through to the glass and is a punchy addition to the New World styles of Pales Ale and New Zealand Pilsners.
Used For: Pale ales or any hop dominant ale
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include powerfully fueled tropical passion fruit with grapefruit and citrus characters.
Substitutes: Czech Saaz, possibly American "C" hops (Citra, Calypso, Centennial, Citra, etc.)
SAAZ (CZECH)
2.5-4.5% Alpha Acids • Czech Republic • Finishing Hop
Imported from the Czech Republic, Saaz is a noble type hop considered to have a mild, pleasant, earthy aroma. Czech Saaz has a very low Alpha count which makes it ineffective for bittering.
Used For: Bohemian-style beers, Continental lagers, Wheats, Pilsener lagers.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mild with pleasant earthy, herbal and floral overtones.
Substitutes: Polish Lublin, US Saaz, US Sterling, Tettnang
3-4.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
U.S. equivalent of the Czech variety, but lacks some of the fine-ness of aroma. The Old World steadfast standby made famous by Pilsner Urquell possesses the aromatic blend of earth and spice notable in European nobles. Low bittering value.
Used For: Pilsners, Lagers, Wheats, Belgian-Style Ales
Aroma: Earthy, with a mild spice
Substitutes: Czech Saaz, Polish Lublin, Sterling, Tettnang
6-8.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Released in 1997 by the USDA, Santiam is a triploid selection from Tettnang, Hallertau Mittelfrüh and a cultivar derived from Cascade. It is an American aroma variety with noble hop characteristics.
Used For: Lagers, Pilsners, Belgian Tripel, Kolsch, Bocks, Munich Helles
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include black pepper, floral and spice.
Substitutes: Citra, German Spalt, German Spalter Select, German Tettnang
SAPHIR
2-4% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Refined, sweet, mild clean citrus, hint of tangerine. It was bred with a Hallertau parent and probably a long list of other hops to make it more commercially viable.
Used For: Pilsners, German lagers, Belgian whites
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spicy, fruity and floral with hints of tangerine tones
Substitutes: Hallertau Mittelfruh
11.5-15% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by Select Botanicals Group and released in 2000, Simcoe® Brand YCR 14 cv. is known for its brewing versatility and unique aroma characteristics. It contains high alpha and low-cohumlone which has found favor in the craft and home brewing industries for dual purpose applications. Simcoe®is moderatly tolerant to powdery mildew and has good pickability of a medium size cone.
Used For: US-Style Ales, Pale Ales, IPAs, Double IPAs
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include passion fruit, pine, berry and earth characteristics.
Substitutes: Summit, Magnum, Amarillo, Cascade, Centennial
SLÁDEK
5-9% Alpha Acids • Czech Republic • Finishing Hop
Czech Sladek (meaning “beer brewer”) is a high yielding, Saaz-type aroma hop. Always used as a second hop, although sometimes as a third for a non-premium beer, while Saaz is more likely the third in a premium. It has a lower alpha and higher beta profile which makes its bittering really fine.
Used For: Lagers
Aroma: Fruity flavor profile with essences of peach, passion fruit, and grapefruit.
Substitutes: Saaz
SMARAGD
4-6% Alpha Acids • German • Dual Purpose Hop
Formerly known as Emerald, Smaragd is a fine aroma variety with high bitter value. This variety shows high yields and good production characteristics. Smaragd Hops introduction comes around the same time as the debut as Opal and Saphir, which is around the turn of the century, and are all considered noble-like hops due to their low co-humulone contributions.
Used For: Pilsners, German Ales, German Lagers, Belgian Styles, Weissbier
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral, spicy and mild fruity.
Substitutes: Hallertau Mittelfruh
11.5-14.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed in Japan in 1984 for Sapporo Breweries, Ltd., Sorachi Ace is a cross between Brewer's Gold, Saaz and Beikei No. 2 male. It is available in limited quantities, however, it remains a popular variety among craft brewers for its unique citrus fruit, herbal and dill aromas.
Used For: Belgian Wits, IPAs, Pale Ales, Belgian Saisons
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include lemon, lime and dill.
Substitutes: Southern Cross
SOUTHERN CROSS
11-14% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research hop breeding program and released in 1994, Southern Cross is a triploid cross between New Zealand Smoothcone and a 1950’s research variety bred from a crossing of Californian and English Fuggle. It has excellent essential oils and low co-humulone delivering a delicate balance of citrus and spice when added at the end of boil.
Used For: Australian Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include citrus and tropical fruit with hints of lemon zest, lime, pine and spice.
Substitutes: Sorachi Ace
SOVEREIGN
4.5-6.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred from an open pollination made in 1995 at Horticulture Research International (HRI), Wye College in the UK and released in 2006, Sovereign is the granddaughter of Pioneer and works well with Goldings in British bitters and pale ales. Floral, grassy and minty on the nose, its bittering qualities are classic and well rounded. It has also been reported to impart subtle green tea and vanilla aspects to a beer. Works well in conjunction with Goldings.
Used For: Pale Ales, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pleasant but intense fruity flavors with mild floral, grassy, herbal and mint characteristics.
Substitutes: Fuggle
SPALT
2.5-5.5% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
A landrace variety originating from the Spalt region in Southern Germany, Spalt (or Spalter) is an aroma variety with characteristics similar to German Tettnang. It belongs to the Saaz group and displays fine, noble characteristics.
Used For: Many traditional German bocks, alts, lagers, pilsners, and munich helles
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble characteristics; earthy, spicy herbal, floral
Substitutes: Saaz, Tettnang, Ultra
SPALTER SELECT
3-6.5% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Bred at the Hop Research Center in Hüll and released in 1993, Select is often referred to as “Spalter Select.” It was bred to be like the Spalt, Tettnang, and Saaz groups. These efforts were quite successful. Spalter Select has low alpha acids and low cohumulone making a nice noble aroma style hop. It was bred from Spalter crossed with Hallertauer Mittelfrüher and retains some of the finer characteristics of both, making it like a slightly spicier version of Spalt.
Used For: Kölsch, Belgian Ales, French Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spicy and grass.
Substitutes: Tettnanger (US & German), Saaz (US & Czech), Spalt
STERLING
6-9% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Bred in 1990 and released in 1998, Sterling is an aroma variety with noble hop characteristics. It shows moderate tolerance to powdery mildew and has good pickability of compact cones.
Used For: Ale, Pilsner, Lager
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble and spicy.
Substitutes: Saaz, Mt Hood
STICKLEBRACT
13-14.2% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Stricklebract is compared to Nothern Brewer and provides robust aroma contributions. A high level of selinine is associated with the piney citrus character. It also comes with high levels of myrcene oil and registering levels of farnesene oil. Much like Northern Brewer, Sticklebract is versatile from boil to dry-hop in the beer brewing process.
Used For: Pale ales, ESB, porters, lagers, pilsners
Aroma: Notes of citrus and pine
Substitutes: German Northern Brewer, Hersbrucker, Hallertau
STRISSELSPALT
1.8-2.5% Alpha Acids • French • Finishing Hop
Strisselspalt is from the Alsace area of France, near Strasbourg. It is globally accepted as a good aroma hop with similar characteristics to Hersbrucker.
Used For: Amber Ales, Blonde Ales, Bocks, Golden Ales, Pilsners, Saisons
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include spicy, citrusy, floral, fruity and herbal.
Substitutes: Crystal, Hersbrucker, Mt. Hood
STYRIAN GOLDING
4-6% Alpha Acids • Slovenia • Finishing Hop
Styrian Golding Hops, also called Savinja Golding, is a traditional hops grown primarily in Slovenia, and also Austria; It is not of the Golding heritage, instead Styrian Golding is a form of Fuggle Hops and carries much of its attributes. This variety was the major hops crop for Styria (Austrian state bordering Slovenia) in the 1930's as powdery mildew made its impact on other varieties from the area.
Used For: English style ales, Vienna/Oktoberfest lagers, Belgian ales, pilseners.
Aroma: Spice with a earthy/sweet edge
Substitutes: Fuggle, Willamette.
SUMMER
5.6-6.4% Alpha Acids • Australian • Finishing Hop
A descendant of Saaz, Summer was created by Hop Products Australia in 1997 and is a low alpha aroma hop that can be well-utilized late in the boil. It is however even better suited to dry hopping and it is in this capacity that its apricot and melon bouquet really shines. In any capacity, it is not as spicy as its Czech parent.
Used For: American Ales, Belgian Ales,IPAs, Wheat
Aroma: Delicate notes of apricot and melon with hints of grass, peach, passionfruit, and citrus.
Substitutes: Palisade, Saaz
16-19% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering
Bred by the American Dwarf Hop Association and released in 2003, Summit™ is a cross between Lexus and an unspecified male derived from numerous hops including Zeus, Nugget and male USDA varieties. It is the first dwarf hop to be bred for production in the United States. Summit™ is mainly used as a bittering hop, but does have earthy aromatic characteristics and subtle hints of citrus.
Used For: IPAs, Pale Ales, Imperial IPAs, Barley Wines, Stouts
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pepper, incense, anise, orange, pink grapefruit and tangerine.
Substitutes: Columbus, Warrior, Millennium, Simcoe, Amarillo, Cascade
SUN
12-16% Alpha Acids • Bittering Hop
A super alpha hop. Not much information is available.
Used For: Barley Wine, Imperial Stout
Aroma: Pronounced herbaceous aroma and flavor
Substitutes: Magnum, Galena, Zeus
SUPER GALENA
13-16% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Super Galena is a super high alpha variety developed by the Hopsteiner breeding program and released in 2006. It has relatively high contents of both alpha and beta acids, making it a good bittering hop with pleasant aroma. Super Galena is comparable to Galena in its aroma and bitterness profile, but offers a substantially higher yield and complete resistance to all current hop powdery mildew strains found in the U.S.
Used For: Very bitter, but blends well with finishing hops. American ales, stouts and lagers. Suitable for all beer styles.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include sweet fruits, pear, pineapple, blackcurrant, grapefruit, lime, gooseberry and spicy wood.
Substitutes: Galena, Nugget, Cluster, Chinook.
SUPER PRIDE
12.5-16.3% Alpha Acids • Australian • Bittering Hop
With an esteemed family history, Super Pride was bred in 1987 by HPA at the Rostrevor Breeding Garden in Victoria from a cross of a female Pride of Ringwood and an Australian bred male. She was introduced to the world in 1995, offering similar brewing traits to Pride of Ringwood, but with a higher alpha acid content.Commercial production began in 1998. A superstar in her own right, Super Pride has been one of the major hop varieties grown by HPA since 2002 and to this day is used for the bulk of bittering needs in Australian brewed lager.
Used For: Bocks, IPAs, Lagers, Pale Ales, Imperial Pale Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mild and pleasant subtle resin and fruit tones.
Substitutes: Pride of Ringwood
SUSSEX
4.3-5.8% Alpha Acids • English • Finishing Hop
Discovered in 2005 at Gate Court, Northiam in East Sussex, Sussex is a “chance find” variety. It is likely to have resulted from open pollination of a wild hop. It is an aroma hop, with low alpha, typically showing some 4%. It is wilt tolerant, giving a reading of 65, and is reasonably tolerant of downy and powdery mildew. It is a very easy hop to grow, very vigorous, easy to propagate and a good climber.
Used For: English Ales, Pale Ales, Belgian Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include earthy, grass, mint, citrus and vanilla.
Substitutes: Progress, Whitbread Golding, Fuggle
SYLVA
5.6-7.3% Alpha Acids • Australian • Finishing Hop
Bred in 1997 at Tasmanian Bushy Park Breeding Garden, Sylva™ is a result of open pollination of Czech Saaz. Brewing characteristics closely resemble that of its parent, with complex yet subtle floral and herbal characteristics.
Used For: Pilsner, Lager, California Common, Pale Ale
Aroma: Flavors of the forest and fresh-cut timber, subtle and hoppy bohemian-style aroma
Substitutes: Hallertau Mittelfruh, Helga, Saaz
TALISMAN
5.7-8% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Talisman is an American Cluster variety descended from Late Cluster. It is no longer grown commercially because of spotty and unpredictable growth characteristics. It has fairly low alpha acids, although up to 8% AAU were recorded in the Yakima Valley, but it has an unfortunate cohumulone of 53% of the AAU.
Used For: -
Aroma: -
Substitutes: -
TARGET
9.5-12.5% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
Target is commonly used for kettle additions in the brewing process for its smooth bite, and also for early aroma contributions. Target has created a following in breweries for its aroma that comes from the oil composition.
Used For: Robust bittering. British ales and lagers.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include fresh green sage, spicy and peppery, and hints of citrus marmalade.
Substitutes: Fuggle, Willamette
TAURUS
12-17% Alpha Acids • German • Bittering Hop
Also known as Hallertau Taurus or German Taurus. Lives up to its name by being Paulaner’s selection for their Oktoberfest bier. With 12 to nearly 18% alpha acids and its high myrcene content (up to 50% of the oils) it makes for a super dual-use hop. The BarthHaas Group of hops experts tells of Taurus’ interesting earthy, strong aroma with hints of chocolate and banana, spicy, peppery, and finishes with a zesty undernote of curry. It carries the highest amount of xanthohumol of any hops, which is like saying it’s beer with a vitamin punch. Now, not many people want to think about “healthy” beer, but hey, something that tastes this great when added to the boil is sure to please.
Used For: German-Style Ales; Schwarzbier, Oktoberfest
Aroma: Earthy with hints of chocolate and banana
Substitutes: Magnum, Citra, German Tradition
4-6% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Originating from the traditional landrace variety from Germany, Tettnang is from the Saaz group. It displays fine, noble characteristics with a slight spiciness and is typically used in lager and pilsner style beers. US Tettnang is grown in Washington State and Oregon.
Used For: US-Style Ales, Wheats, Lagers, Pilsners
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include noble characteristics
Substitutes: Fuggle, Santiam, German Spalt Select, German Spalt
TOMAHAWK
15-17.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Bred by Chales Zimmermann, Tomahawk® Brand F10 cv. was the first commercially grown “Super Alpha” variety. It is tolerant to downy mildew, but susceptible to powdery mildew and features good pickability of large, compact cones. Tomahawk is often referred to as CTZ, standing for Columbus, Tomahawk®, and Zeus.
Used For: US IPAs, US Pale Ales, Stouts, Barley Wines, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pungent, black pepper, licorice, curry and subtle citrus.
Substitutes: Centennial, Chinook, Galena, Nugget, Millennium
TRADITION
5-7% Alpha Acids • German • Finishing Hop
Hallertauer Tradition hops is another invention of the Hull Hop Research Institute in Germany, and was bred for is resistance and tolerance to disease and fungus. Introduced in 1991, this hops variety is comprised of 47% Hallertau Mittelfruh, 15% Saazer, and Hallertauer Gold. This combination helps set the precedent for the profile of this hops that is sometimes simply called Tradition.
Used For: Lagers, Pilsner, Bock, Wheat, Weizen
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include medium to intense floral, herbal and grassy notes; some fruity aromas
Substitutes: Magnum, Hersbrucker, Taurus
ULTRA
9.2-9.7% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Bred by the hops research program in Corvallis, Oregon in 1983 and released in 1995 by the USDA, Ultra is a triploid seedling of Hallertau mf. and half sister to Mt. Hood, Liberty and Crystal. It is resistant to downy mildew and features small size cones. Ultra is related to traditional German varieties and can be utilized in similar applications.
Used For: Pilsner and German style lagers.
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include mild, spicy and bouquet.
Substitutes: Hallertau, Any Noble hop, Crystal, Liberty, Mt. Hood
VANGUARD
4.5-6.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Bred in 1982 by the USDA and released in 1997, Vanguard is an aroma variety with similar characteristics to Hallertau Mittelfrüh. Vanguard is typically utilized in traditional German-style beers as a noble type variety.
Used For: Lagers, Pilsners, Bocks, Kolsch, Wheats, Munich Helles, Belgian-Style Ales
Aroma: Specfic aroma descriptors include woody, cedar notes.
Substitutes: Hallertau, German Hersbrucker, Mt. Hood, Liberty
WAIMEA
16-19% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Released from The New Zealand Institute for Plant & Food Research Limited’s Motueka Research Centre, Waimea is well-suited to dual purpose applications from early kettle additions right through to dry hopping. It exudes quality bitterness and aroma abound with fruity citrus and pine characters from this hop's big weight of oil. A big hop for big beers, it an be used across a wide array of styles in a variety of brewhouse and dry hopping applications.
Used For: Pale Ales, IPAs, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include lots of pine and citrus characters; intense tangelo.
Substitutes: Pacific Jade
6.5-8.5% Alpha Acids • New Zealand • Dual Purpose Hop
Developed by the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research hop breeding program and released in 1988, as Hallertau Aroma, Wakatu was renamed in 2011. It is a triplod variety with two thirds Hallertau Mittelfrüh parentage. Wakatu is a well rounded variety with strong, fresh citrus characteristics and some bittering capabilities.
Used For: Belgian Ales, Lagers, Pale Ales
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include restrained floral notes and freshly zested lime.
Substitutes: Hallertauer Mittelfrüh, Nelson Sauvin
15.5-18% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Bittering Hop
Developed by Select Botanicals Group, Warrior was selected for its high alpha content, low co-humulone, good storage stability and tolerance t o powdery mildew. It is primarily used in brewing for its mild, clean bittering properties and has good pickability of a medium size cone in the field.
Used For: Pale Ales, IPAs, Stouts, Barley Wines
Aroma: Specific aromas descriptors are mild, resinous and subtle pine.
Substitutes: Columbus, Nugget, Magnum, Summit
4.5-6.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Finishing Hop
Released in 1976 from the USDA breeding program, Willamette is a triploid seedling of English Fuggle. For years, it was the most widely grown aroma variety in the US. It is named after Oregon’s Willamette River which runs through the heart of the state’s hop growing region.
Used For: All English-Style Ales, US Pale Ales, US Brown Ales, American Lagers, Porters
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include floral, incense, and elderberry.
Substitutes: Glacier, Fuggle (US), Tettnang (US), Styrian Golding, Kent Golding
YEOMAN
12-16% Alpha Acids • English • Bittering Hop
Yeoman Hops, sometimes called Wye Yeoman, was bred at Wye College in England in the 1970's. Its precise pedigree is unknown, although it is compared to Target Hops. It is no longer available on the open markets, but it has left its footprint on the hops universe. Yeoman Hops as a seedling was taken from Wye and was named Phoenix Hops, which was seen as a disease resistant replacement for Challenger. Yeoman Hops is also a grand parent of Australian Super Pride Hops, which is dubbed as such for its astounding yield and high alpha content compared to Pride of Ringwood.
Used For: British Ales and Lagers
Aroma: Strong English Hop Aroma with citrus notes.
Substitutes: Target
ZAPPA
4-8% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Aroma
Zappa hops are grown exclusively by CLS Farms in the Yakima Valley, but it is a 100% neomexicanus aroma hop that came from the mountains of New Mexico. Evolving independently, Zappa has developed its own rebellious aroma and unique flavor characteristics.
Used For: Hazy or milkshake IPA, fruited sour, pale ale, American strong ale, and wild or mixed-fermentation beers.
Aroma: Passionfruit, mint, spice, tropical fruits, and fruity pebbles.
Substitutes: Medusa
ZENITH
9-11% Alpha Acids • English • Dual Purpose Hop
A high alpha aroma variety bred at Wye College, England in the 1970’s. Good resistance to mildews. It is a hoppy all-purpose hop (not as bitter as Yeoman) that works well with many other finishing type hops. Has a notably strong aroma for a high alpha type with high oils. The pedigree of the Zenith hop is not publicly available.
Used For: Pale Ales, Stouts, Lagers
Aroma: Pleasing bouquet with hoppy citrus flavor
Substitutes: Yeoman, Northern Brewer
ZEUS
14.5-17.5% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
Although genetically different, Zeus is often referred to as part of CTZ along with Columbus and Tomahawk®, a trio of similar hops.
Used For: US IPAs, US Pale Ales, Stouts, Barley Wines, Lagers
Aroma: Specific aroma descriptors include pungent, black pepper, licorice, and curry.
Substitutes: Centennial, Chinook, Galena, Nugget, Millennium
ZYTHOS
~11% Alpha Acids • Domestic • Dual Purpose Hop
A proprietary hop blend created to embody the powerful tradition and aroma you expect for your finest ales and IPA brews. With targeted brewing values of 11.9% alpha and 5.0% beta, ZYTHOS is an IPA style blend created to optimize and exceed the aroma characteristics found in the finest American IPA's and Pale ales (and any other hoppy American style). ZYTHOS is not a replacement for proprietary varieties, but rather, a premium pellet blend that will compliment your current IPA and Pale Ale brews.This novel proprietary pellet blend is comprised of many of the Northwest's most unique hop varieties and is perfect for any American-style IPA. Each hop has been hand selected for its superior aromatic qualities.
Used For: IPAs, Pale Ales
Aroma: Imparts distinct tangerine, citrus, floral, pine and grapefruit tones.
Substitutes: Amarillo, Cascade
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References
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Farm Fresh Hops for Six Generations. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.hopsteiner.com/
- Hop Products Australia. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.hops.com.au/
- Hop Variety: Hand Book[PDF]. (n.d.). Yakima, Washington: HopUnion LLC
- Hops. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.beer-brewing.com/beer_brewing/beer_brewing_chapters/ch03_hops.htm
- Hops Varieties. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://freshops.com/hop-variety-descriptions/
- Innovationis Chief. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ychhops.com/
- Snyder, S. (1997). The Brewmasters bible: The gold standard for homebrewers. New York: HarperPerennial.
- The Home of Beer Hops. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.hopslist.com/
- Yakima Chief Hops Varieties[PDF]. (n.d.). Yakima, Washington: HopUnion LLC.
