Topaz Hops

Dual: Aroma and BitteringAlpha 13.7 - 18.0%Australia

Topaz is a premier Australian dual-purpose variety that perfectly captures the bold, experimental spirit of Southern Hemisphere brewing. Developed in 1985 by Hop Products Australia and released in 1997, it was born from a cross between high-alpha Australian hops and genetics from Wye College in the United Kingdom.

Originally, Topaz was a utilitarian variety, selected almost exclusively for high-alpha acid extract production. However, as the craft revolution took hold, brewers discovered a hidden secret: when treated with the respect of a late-addition hop, Topaz sheds its "workhorse" reputation to reveal a complex tapestry of exotic fruit. It is now celebrated as a dual-purpose powerhouse, providing the structural muscle needed for high-gravity brews and the vibrant aromatics required for modern, fruit-driven ales.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Topaz, the best alternatives are Amarillo®, Cascade, Citra®, Galaxy, Rakau, or Riwaka.

At A Glance

ProfileResinous, Dank, Tropical Fruit, Lychee, Clove, Spicy, Passion Fruit, Earthy, Tobacco, Pine
PurposeDual: Aroma and Bittering
Alpha Acid13.7 - 18.0%
SubstitutesAmarillo®, Cascade, Citra®, Galaxy, Rakau, Riwaka
Pairs withCentennial (to bridge the gap between earthy resin and citrus), Galaxy (to maximize tropical intensity), Vic Secret (for a cleaner pineapple finish)
Beer StylesIndia Pale Ale, Imperial India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Amber Ale, Stout

General Information

Country
Australia
Alias
TC-85-70
Storage Stability
Retains 75% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
13.7 - 18.0%
Beta Acid
6.0 - 7.9%
Cohumulone
48.0 - 51.0%
Total Oil
1.7 - 2.2 ml/100g
Myrcene
55.0 - 55.0%
Humulene
8.0 - 13.0%
Caryophyllene
7.0 - 13.0%
Farnesene
1.0%
Linalool
0.3 - 0.8%
Geraniol
0.2 - 0.5%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
3,400 - 3,750 lbs/acre
Maturity
Late season
Growth Rate
Very high
Cones
Large, very dense
Ease of Harvest
Good; bines are extremely tough and cones hold together well
Sex
Female (Triploid)
Leaf Color
Medium to dark green
Side Arm Length
24" - 35"

Discovery Tags

Origin

Breeding/Supplier

Last Updated
  • 2026-03-04 02:11:15