Epic Hops

Epic stands as a fascinating, serendipitous triumph of British hop history, possessing a truly unique origin story that sets it apart from laboratory-bred cultivars. It was originally discovered in 1987 by grower Chris Nicholas, found growing wild in a hedgerow adjacent to a commercial hop field in Sandhurst, Kent. While its oil composition strongly suggests a genetic relationship to the traditional variety Alliance, Epic was cultivated strictly for ornamental landscaping purposes for nearly two decades before finally being granted a dedicated research plot for brewing trials in 2004. Thanks to its impressive agronomic field performance, characterized by exceptionally large, high-volume yields, this resilient variety successfully transitioned into commercial production. For modern brewhouses, Epic functions as an exceptional low-alpha asset (typically ranging between 3.0% and 5.0% alpha acids) that delivers a beautifully rounded, gentle bitterness with a moderate cohumulone ratio, making it an ideal choice for delicate session ales where harsh acridity must be avoided.

The profile of Epic is an incredibly well-rounded, elegant tapestry that masterfully balances modern fruit accents with a comforting, traditional European noble undertone. When introduced to the beer, it displays a medium-intensity aroma driven by sweet wild berries, ripe dark orchard fruits, and crisp, zesty lemongrass. As the aromatic profile unfolds across the palate, this pleasant fruitiness is subtly countered by a rustic mid-palate of cracked black pepper, warm herbal spice, and fresh-cut damp grass. A faint, background top-note of delicate summer florals and clean, woodsy citrus provides a thoroughly refreshing finish. This unique intersection of sweet dark berry esters and grounding, resinous earthiness ensures Epic brings a multi-dimensional, old-school depth to malt-forward brews without ever competing with or overpowering delicate yeast characteristics.