Bouclier Hops

Bouclier is a modern French dual-purpose variety released in 2005 by the Comptoir Agricole cooperative in Alsace. Developed as a cross between the legendary Alsatian noble hop Strisselspalt and a wild male from Wye, Kent, its pedigree includes heavyweights like Challenger, Early Bird Golding, and Northern Brewer. Its name translates to "Shield," a nod to its exceptional agronomic resilience and robust resistance to common hop diseases. By marrying the delicate elegance of its French heritage with the structurally sound performance of English lineage, Bouclier serves as a sophisticated evolution of continental brewing traditions, offering higher oil potential while maintaining impeccable finesse.

The sensory architecture of Bouclier is remarkably expressive and multivalent, opening with an alluring mixture of sweet lemon citrus, soft field blossoms, and fresh orchard fruit. This bright, clean top note is beautifully counterbalanced by a complex mid-palate of crushed garden herbs and fresh-cut grass. What truly sets Bouclier apart is its unique, savory spice profile, which delivers refined notes of black pepper, nutmeg, and ginger, along with a distinct hint of lovage. Grounding the experience is a sturdy, woodsy continental finish that remains smooth and sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for brewers looking to add a layer of rustic, savory complexity without sacrificing the pristine drinkability of traditional European hops.