Mount Rainier Hops

Mount Rainier is a sophisticated dual-purpose variety that represents a successful marriage of "Old World" elegance and "New World" performance. Developed through a collaboration between Oregon State University and the United States Department of Agriculture starting in 1994, it was officially released to the public in 2009. Its pedigree is a bridge between continents: a cross between the high-alpha Magnum and a USDA male (with Hallertau Mittelfrüh and Galena in its lineage). Specifically engineered to elevate the classic "Noble" hop profile, Mount Rainier provides the delicate floral finesse of German varieties alongside the resin-rich vigor of American hops. While commercial production has largely ceased, it remains a legendary choice for those seeking a "Noble-plus" aesthetic.

The sensory profile of Mount Rainier is a graceful and layered arrangement of sweet meadow blossoms and cooling herbal spice. It leads with a primary, "meadow-fresh" bouquet of dried lavender, wildflower honey, and fresh-cut hay, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of citrus zest, licorice, and a hint of minty pine. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant earthy "snap" and a subtle nuttiness that remains exceptionally clean on the palate. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels and balanced alpha-to-beta ratio, Mount Rainier delivers a soft, rounded bitterness and a crisp, polished finish—the definitive choice for adding aromatic depth to everything from delicate lagers to robust porters.