Saphir Hops

AromaAlpha 2.0 - 4.5%Germany

Saphir is a distinguished German aroma hop that represents a modern evolution of the classic Hallertau lineage. Developed at the Hüll Hop Research Center and released in 2002, it was specifically engineered as a more disease-resistant alternative to traditional Hallertau Mittelfrüh. Known for having one of the lowest alpha acid contents in the world, Saphir is prized by brewers for its incredible chemical purity—notably its exceptionally low cohumulone levels—which ensures a high-quality, soft bitterness. It successfully bridges the gap between "Noble" traditions and 21st-century agricultural demands, offering a more robust oil profile than its landrace ancestors.

The sensory profile of Saphir is a masterful balance of delicate florals and bright, sweet citrus, offering a "fruity twist" rarely found in traditional German varieties. It leads with a primary bouquet of tangerine and red berries, followed by a sophisticated herbal background reminiscent of Earl Grey tea and fresh-cut hay. As the profile develops, brewers will find a "perfumed" quality of lavender and [tag]honeysuckle/[tag] that provides a bright, jewel-like clarity. Because of its remarkably high linalool content, Saphir delivers an incredibly smooth, non-lingering bitterness and a crisp finish, making it the definitive choice for world-class Pilsners, Belgian Witbiers, and modern Wheat beers.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Saphir, the best alternatives are Hallertau, Liberty, Smaragd, or Spalter Select.

At A Glance

ProfileFloral, Sweet Citrus, Tangerine, Red Berries, Herbal, Earl Grey Tea, Fresh-Cut Hay, Honeysuckle
PurposeAroma
Alpha Acid2.0 - 4.5%
SubstitutesHallertau, Liberty, Smaragd, Spalter Select
Pairs withHallertauer Tradition (to ground the fruitiness with noble spice), Mandarina Bavaria (for an intense citrus punch), Smaragd (to amplify melon and citrus notes)
Beer StylesGerman Pilsner, Helles, Witbier, Saison, Kolsch, Belgian Pale Ale

General Information

Country
Germany
Aliases
Sapphire, Hallertau Saphir, Sappire
Storage Stability
Retains 60% - 70% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
2.0 - 4.5%
Beta Acid
4.0 - 7.0%
Cohumulone
12.0 - 17.0%
Total Oil
0.8 - 1.4 ml/100g
Myrcene
25.0 - 40.0%
Humulene
20.0 - 30.0%
Caryophyllene
9.0 - 14.0%
Farnesene
< 1.0%
Linalool
0.8 - 1.3%
Geraniol
~0.3%
Total Polyphenols
4.0 - 5.0%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
1,400 - 1,700 lbs/acre
Maturity
Early to mid season
Resistant
Powdery Mildew (high)
Tolerant
Downy Mildew, Verticillium Wilt, Aphids
Growth Rate
High
Cones
Small to medium-sized, oval, and very dense. They are known for a high concentration of aromatic lup
Ease of Harvest
Excellent; specifically selected for its suitability for modern mechanical picking and low cone-shat
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Medium green
Side Arm Length
18" - 28"

Saphir Aroma/Flavor Profile

Aroma
CitrusTropical FruitStone FruitApple/PearMelonBerryFloralSpicy/Herbal

Discovery Tags

Usage

Origin

Breeding/Supplier

Last Updated
  • 2026-04-06 15:25:10