Lemondrop Hops

AromaAlpha 5.0 - 7.0%United States

Lemondrop is a masterful expression of modern hop breeding, successfully uniting New World zest with the elegant structure of the Old World. Released by Hopsteiner in 2012, this variety was bred from Cascade and a USDA 19058 male, effectively functioning as a "Super Noble" hop that refines the foundational greatness of its parentage through the lens of its Tettnanger heritage. The result is a hop that favors clarity and sunshine over aggressive bitterness, providing a polished, professional finish. It has quickly become a staple for brewers who want to achieve a bright, integrated citrus pop that feels natural rather than overwhelming, making it a versatile performer for both traditional lagers and experimental farmhouse ales.

The profile of Lemondrop is a vibrant and breezy arrangement of citrus groves and herbal meadows. It leads with a dominant primary bouquet of fresh lemon peel, lemon drop candy, and lemongrass, followed closely by a sophisticated secondary layer of green tea, mint, and soft wildflower honey. Unlike many American hops that lean into heavy pine or grapefruit, Lemondrop remains "airy" and bright, offering a delicate sweetness that rounds out the sharper citrus edges. On the palate, it delivers a crisp, incredibly clean bitterness that emphasizes the refreshing, thirst-quenching qualities of the beer. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking a focused, "zippy" lemon character that remains elegant and beautifully balanced.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Lemondrop, the best alternatives are Cascade, Centennial, or Mandarina Bavaria.

At A Glance

ProfileLemon Drop Candy, Fresh Lemongrass, Green Tea, Mint
PurposeAroma
Alpha Acid5.0 - 7.0%
SubstitutesCascade, Centennial, Mandarina Bavaria
Pairs withAmarillo® (to add a jammy orange depth), Crystal (to ground the lemon notes with a traditional woody-herbal foundation), Huell Melon (for a soft/fruity contrast)
Beer StylesSaison, Pilsner, Wheat Beer, Blonde Ale, Session India Pale Ale, Pale Ale

General Information

Country
United States
Alias
Experimental #01210
Storage Stability
Good

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
5.0 - 7.0%
Beta Acid
4.0 - 6.0%
Cohumulone
28.0 - 34.0%
Total Oil
1.5 - 2.0 ml/100g
Myrcene
40.0 - 50.0%
Humulene
18.0 - 25.0%
Caryophyllene
6.0 - 10.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
0.5 - 0.9%
Geraniol
0.1 - 0.3%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
1,800 - 2,200 lbs/acre
Maturity
Mid to Late Season
Tolerant
Downy Mildew
Growth Rate
High / Vigorous
Cones
Medium-sized, moderately dense, and highly aromatic. During the harvest window, the cones emit a dis
Ease of Harvest
Excellent; the bines are structurally sound and handle mechanical picking with ease. Because of its
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Medium Green
Side Arm Length
220" - 30" (medium)

Lemondrop Aroma/Flavor Profile

Aroma
Flavor
CitrusTropical FruitStone FruitApple/PearMelonBerryFloralSpicy/HerbalPineResinGrassEarthy/WoodyOnion/GarlicDank/Catty

Discovery Tags

Usage

Last Updated
  • 2026-05-07 23:56:18