Hüller Bitter Hops

Dual: Aroma and BitteringAlpha 3.0 - 6.0%Germany

Flavor & aroma

Hüller Bitter is a historic pillar of German hop breeding, representing a major milestone for the Hop Research Center in Hüll during the 1960s. Released in 1978, this variety was engineered by crossing Northern Brewer with a Verticillium Wilt-resistant male to provide reliable bittering power while preserving the "Noble" soul of the Hallertau region. While its acreage in Germany has waned over the years in favor of Perle, it remains a favorite for traditionalists seeking a refined, "old-world" character. It offers a sophisticated alternative to modern, high-alpha giants, acting as an essential component for brewers who want to craft authentic, mid-century Continental lagers with a professional-grade finish.

The profile of Hüller Bitter is a restrained and elegant arrangement of wood, spice, and earth. It leads with a primary bouquet of cedar and noble spice, followed by a secondary layer of dried herbs and a faint, floral sweetness reminiscent of spring blossoms. Unlike modern fruit-forward hybrids, Hüller Bitter is defined by its herbal purity and "green" freshness, lacking any aggressive resinous edges. On the palate, it delivers a sturdy but clean bitterness that integrates perfectly with the rich, bready flavors of Munich and Pilsner malts. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking a nuanced, structural hop that emphasizes balance, herbal complexity, and a crisp, dry finish.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Hüller Bitter, the best alternatives are Hallertau, Hersbrucker, Northern Brewer, or Perle.

At A Glance

ProfileCedar, Noble Spice, Dried Herbs, Spring Blossoms
PurposeDual: Aroma and Bittering
Alpha Acid3.0 - 6.0%
SubstitutesHallertau, Hersbrucker, Northern Brewer, Perle
Pairs withHersbrucker (to amplify the herbal-earthy notes), Northern Brewer (to provide a more intense wood and mint character), Saphir (to add a touch of modern citrus)
Beer StylesGerman Pilsner, Munich Helles, Märzen, Bock, Altbier

General Information

Country
Germany
Aliases
Hüller, Hüller Bitterer, Hueller Bitter, Hueller Bitterer, Hueller
Storage Stability
Retains 68% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
3.0 - 6.0%
Beta Acid
3.5 - 5.0%
Cohumulone
24.0 - 30.0%
Total Oil
0.6 - 1.1 ml/100g
Myrcene
20.0 - 30.0%
Humulene
30.0 - 45.0%
Caryophyllene
10.0 - 15.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
1,300 - 1,700 lbs/acre
Maturity
Mid to Late Season
Resistant
Downy Mildew
Tolerant
Verticillium Wilt (High)
Growth Rate
Moderate to High
Cones
Medium-sized, oval, and moderately compact. The cones are noted for their high humulene-to-myrcene r
Ease of Harvest
Very Good; the bines are structurally sound and were historically well-suited for the early mechanic
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Medium green
Side Arm Length
20" - 30" (Medium)

Discovery Tags

Origin

Breeding/Supplier

Last Updated
  • 2026-05-15 04:19:59