Polaris Hops

Dual: Aroma and BitteringAlpha 18.0 - 23.0%Germany

Polaris is a revolutionary high-alpha variety that represents the pinnacle of modern German hop breeding. Released in 2012 by the Hüll Hop Research Center, it was engineered to be a "super-hop" capable of delivering massive bittering efficiency alongside an unmistakable aromatic signature. Polaris is distinguished by its incredible essential oil content—often double that of traditional varieties—and its robust agricultural performance. It is a favorite among craft brewers who require a versatile hop that can stand up to the biggest malt bills while providing a cooling, bold, and refreshing finish that is entirely its own.

The sensory profile of Polaris is intense, multi-dimensional, and famously refreshing. It is world-renowned for its signature "ice candy" or menthol character, which provides a distinct cooling sensation on the palate. This leads a primary bouquet of sharp peppermint, wintergreen, and eucalyptus, followed by a vibrant secondary layer of green apple candy and a Hallertau-like herbal sweetness. As the profile develops, brewers will find a substantial, resinous mouthfeel and a clean, punchy bitterness. Thanks to its massive oil concentration and high alpha acids, Polaris delivers a saturated aromatic presence and a crisp finish, making it the definitive choice for a bold, "glacier-fresh" impact.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Polaris, the best alternatives are Herkules, Nugget, or Pacific Jade.

At A Glance

ProfileIce Candy, Menthol, Sharp Peppermint, Wintergreen, Fresh Pine, Lemon Zest, Sweet Pineapple, Resinous
PurposeDual: Aroma and Bittering
Alpha Acid18.0 - 23.0%
SubstitutesHerkules, Nugget, Pacific Jade
Pairs withCascade (to bridge the gap between European mint and American citrus), Mandarina Bavaria (for a citrus-mint blend), Saphir (to refine the floral notes)
Beer StylesDouble India Pale Ale, Imperial Stout, Winter Warmer, Pale Ale, Modern Lager

General Information

Country
Germany
Alias
German Polaris
Storage Stability
Retains 80% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
18.0 - 23.0%
Beta Acid
4.5 - 6.5%
Cohumulone
22.0 - 29.0%
Total Oil
4.0 - 5.0 ml/100g
Myrcene
45.0 - 55.0%
Humulene
20.0 - 30.0%
Caryophyllene
8.0 - 13.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
0.4 - 0.7%
B-Pinene
0.5 - 0.8%
Geraniol
~0.1%
Total Polyphenols
3.0 - 4.0%
Xanthohumol
0.6 - 0.9%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
2,200 - 2,600 lbs/acre
Maturity
Late season
Resistant
Downy Mildew, Powdery Mildew, Wilt
Growth Rate
Very high

Polaris Aroma/Flavor Profile

Aroma
CitrusTropical FruitStone FruitApple/PearMelonBerryFloralSpicy/Herbal

Discovery Tags

Origin

Last Updated
  • 2026-04-11 00:27:54