Sirem Hops

AromaAlpha 2.7 - 4.4%Czechia

Sirem is an exquisite and rare clonal selection of the traditional Saaz family, originating as a clone of Zatecky Krajovy at the Hop Research Institute in Zalec. Known by several aliases in the international trade—including Aurum, Bohemian Red, and Saaz—it is a cornerstone of the "Bohemian Red Hop" tradition, distinguished in the field by its striking reddish stems. Due to its historically poor growth rate and low yields, Sirem remains a boutique variety grown on very limited acreage. Despite these agricultural challenges, it is prized for its historical significance and its ability to produce the "super-premium" character required for world-class, authentic continental pilsners.

The sensory profile of Sirem is the embodiment of the "Noble" hop ideal: exceptionally mild, pleasant, and sophisticated. It leads with a primary, "old-world" bouquet of soft floral notes and sweet hay, immediately followed by the classic spicy-earthy undertones that define the finest Bohemian hops. As the profile develops, brewers will find a remarkably clean and delicate bitterness that integrates seamlessly into light malt backbones. Thanks to its high humulene-to-caryophyllene ratio and low cohumulone levels, Sirem provides a rounded, non-lingering finish and a refined herbal aroma, making it the definitive choice for brewers seeking a polished and professional aromatic depth.

Substitution Tip

If you can't find Sirem, the best alternatives are Saaz or Sládek.

At A Glance

ProfileFloral, Sweet Hay, Spicy, Earthy
PurposeAroma
Alpha Acid2.7 - 4.4%
SubstitutesSaaz, Sládek
Pairs withPremiant (for a firmer/clean bittering base), Saaz (to reinforce the traditional spice), Sládek (for a more modern fruit-forward lift)
Beer StylesPilsner, Bohemian Lager, European Pale Lager

General Information

Country
Czechia
Aliases
Aurum, Bohemian Red
Storage Stability
Retains 54 - 60% alpha acid

Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)

Alpha Acid
2.7 - 4.4%
Beta Acid
2.8 - 3.5%
Cohumulone
21.0 - 25.0%
Total Oil
0.2 - 0.8 ml/100g
Myrcene
20.0 - 40.9%
Humulene
20.3 - 26.5%
Caryophyllene
5.6 - 6.6%
Farnesene
12.2 - 20.8%

Growth & Cultivation

Yield
74 - 192 pounds/acre
Maturity
Early
Susceptible
Downy mildew (moderate)
Growth Rate
Poor
Cones
Small, delicate, and rich in the fine essential oils characteristic of the Saaz lineage
Ease of Harvest
Moderate; while it is mechanically harvestable, its low vigor and short side-arms require attentive
Sex
Female
Leaf Color
Dark green
Side Arm Length
6 - 10 inches

Discovery Tags

Variety Name

Usage

Origin

Last Updated
  • 2026-04-03 15:58:51