Pahto Hops

BitteringAlpha 17.0 - 20.0%United States

Flavor & aroma

Pahto represents the next evolution of high-efficiency bittering hops, engineered to meet the rigorous demands of the modern brewhouse. Released in 2018 by the Hop Breeding Company (Yakima Chief Ranches), this proprietary "Super Alpha" variety was selected for its massive bittering potential and exceptional agricultural yields. Named in tribute to the Native American name for Mount Adams, Pahto provides a sturdy and reliable foundation for any beer style. It is favored by brewers for its remarkable consistency and its "clean-slate" approach—ensuring the heavy lifting of isomerization is handled efficiently while leaving the stage clear for the complex aromatics of later hop additions.

The secret to its smooth bitterness lies in its unique pedigree; the father of the mother of Pahto (quite the family tree!) hails from the legendary Wye College program in Kent, England. The profile of Pahto is intentionally focused on neutrality and structural integrity. When used as an early-kettle addition, it delivers an assertive bitterness that is notably devoid of the harsh, "grassy" tannins often found in other high-alpha varieties. While primarily a bittering workhorse, late additions reveal a subtle, refined character of mild earthiness, herbal spice, and light floral notes. Because of its low cohumulone levels, it provides a polished mouthfeel and a crisp, evanescent finish.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Pahto, the best alternatives are Apollo, Columbus, Herkules, Magnum, or Warrior®.

At A Glance

ProfileMild Earthiness, Herbal Spice, Light Floral
PurposeBittering
Alpha Acid17.0 - 20.0%
SubstitutesApollo, Columbus, Herkules, Magnum, Warrior®
Pairs withCitra® (to establish a clean base for tropical fruit), Mosaic® (to provide bitterness beneath complex berry notes), Sabro (to offer structural support for creamy coconut aromatics)
Beer StylesIndia Pale Ale, Double India Pale Ale, Stout, Lager, Pale Ale

General Information

Country
United States
Alias
HBC 682
Storage Stability
Excellent

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
17.0 - 20.0%
Beta Acid
4.5 - 6.0%
Cohumulone
26.0 - 32.0%
Total Oil
1.0 - 2.5 ml/100g
Myrcene
40.0 - 55.0%
Humulene
15.0 - 22.0%
Caryophyllene
7.0 - 12.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
~0.5%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
2,500 - 3,000 lbs/acre
Maturity
Late season
Resistant
Powdery Mildew (superior), Downy Mildew (superior)
Growth Rate
Very High
Cones
Large, very dense, and heavily saturated with lupulin. The cones are structurally robust and hold up
Ease of Harvest
Excellent; the bines are exceptionally strong, making them ideal for high-speed mechanical picking a
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Dark green
Side Arm Length
24" - 40" (long)

Discovery Tags

Usage

Breeding/Supplier

Last Updated
  • 2026-04-15 00:35:15