Tolhurst Hops: Profile & Substitutions
Description
Tolhurst is a fascinating heritage variety that offers a direct window into the hop gardens of 1880s Kent. Discovered by James Tolhurst in Horsmonden, England, it was initially a commercial powerhouse. In an era where disease could wipe out entire harvests, Tolhurst was a "survivor," praised for its vigorous growth and resilience compared to the more delicate varieties of the late 19th century.
While it eventually fell out of favor due to poor storage stability and lower yields compared to modern hybrids, Tolhurst remains a cornerstone of brewing history. It is a direct selection from the Fuggle lineage, serving as a more rustic and robust alternative to its famous parent. For the historical brewer, it provides a rare opportunity to recreate an authentic 19th-century Ale with a hop that truly defines the "utility" character of the Victorian period.
At A Glance
|
Profile
|
Floral, Spicy, Earthy, Currant, Woody, Dried Herbs, Smoke |
|
Purpose
|
Bittering |
|
Alpha Acid
|
2.5 - 4.0% |
|
Substitutes
|
Bramling Cross, Fuggle |
|
Pairs with
|
Bramling Cross (to highlight the dark fruit notes), East Kent Golding (to round out the aroma), Fuggle (to maintain an earthy English base) |
|
Beer Styles
|
English Bitter, Historic Ale, Porters |
General Information
|
Country
|
United Kingdom |
|
Storage Stability
|
Retains 41 - 61% alpha acid |
Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)
|
Alpha Acid
|
2.5 - 4.0% |
|
Beta Acid
|
1.3 - 3.8% |
|
Cohumulone
|
26.0 - 30.0% |
|
Total Oil
|
0.4 - 1.0 ml/100g |
|
Myrcene
|
20.0 - 30.0% |
|
Humulene
|
30.0 - 40.0% |
|
Caryophyllene
|
6.9 - 10.3% |
|
Farnesene
|
< 1.0% |
Growth & Cultivation
|
Yield
|
300 - 700 lbs/acre |
|
Maturity
|
Early to mid early season |
|
Resistant
|
Downy mildew (moderate) |
|
Growth Rate
|
Poor |
|
Cones
|
Medium size, relatively dense |
|
Sex
|
Female |
|
Leaf Color
|
Medium green |
|
Side Arm Length
|
10 - 20 inches |
Last Updated
Source(s)
Hops Catalog