Magnum Hops: Profile & Substitutions
Description
Magnum is the undisputed champion of European bittering, a variety that revolutionized German hop farming by introducing high-alpha efficiency to the Hallertau. Originally bred at the Hop Research Institute in Hüll and released in 1980, it is a cross between the American Galena and German male 75/5/3. Despite its American lineage, Magnum has become the definitive "Noble" high-alpha hop, offering the clean structural integrity required for precise German brewing standards. Brewers rely on its high resin concentration to achieve high IBUs with minimal plant matter, which significantly reduces "grassy" off-flavors and trub loss, making it a professional-grade anchor that respects the delicate balance of malt and yeast.
The aromatic profile of Magnum is one of intentional subtlety and refined spice. Because it was bred to be a neutral bittering agent, it avoids the aggressive tropical or citrus notes found in modern "flavor" hops. Instead, it provides a very mild, "continental" bouquet of dried black pepper, pine needles, and a faint, floral earthiness. On the palate, its impact is felt rather than tasted—providing a "firm" but velvety bitterness that clears the palate quickly without leaving a heavy or resinous coating. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels, the bittering sensation is perceived as rounded and soft, making it the industry standard for styles where a clean finish is paramount.
At A Glance
|
Profile
|
Black Pepper, Pine, Floral, Earth, Resin |
|
Purpose
|
Bittering |
|
Alpha Acid
|
11.0 - 16.0% |
|
Substitutes
|
Galena, Horizon, Magnum (US), Warrior® |
|
Pairs with
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Hallertau Blanc (to add a wine-like top note), Perle (to enhance minty spice) |
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Beer Styles
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German Pilsner, Munich Helles, Oktoberfest, Kölsch, Stout, India Pale Ale |
General Information
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Country
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Germany |
|
Alias
|
Hallertauer Magnum |
|
Storage Stability
|
Retains 80 - 85% alpha acid |
Brewing Chemistry (Acids & Oils)
|
Alpha Acid
|
11.0 - 16.0% |
|
Beta Acid
|
5.0 - 7.0% |
|
Cohumulone
|
21.0 - 29.0% |
|
Total Oil
|
1.6 - 2.6 ml/100g |
|
Myrcene
|
30.0 - 35.0% |
|
Humulene
|
34.0 - 40.0% |
|
Caryophyllene
|
8.0 - 12.0% |
|
Farnesene
|
< 1.0% |
|
Linalool
|
0.2 - 0.7% |
|
B-Pinene
|
0.4 - 0.8% |
|
Geraniol
|
0.3 - 0.6% |
Growth & Cultivation
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Yield
|
1,200 - 1,520 lbs/acre |
|
Maturity
|
Mid to Late Season |
|
Resistant
|
Verticillium Wilt, downy mildew |
|
Tolerant
|
Downy Mildew, Powdery Mildew |
|
Growth Rate
|
High / Very Vigorout |
|
Cones
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Large, heavy, and extremely dense. The cones are ovoid-shaped and packed with high-quality, golden l |
|
Ease of Harvest
|
Excellent; the structural strength of the bines allows for high-speed mechanical harvesting. The con |
|
Sex
|
Female |
|
Leaf Color
|
Medium to Deep Green |
|
Side Arm Length
|
24" - 36" (long) |
Magnum Aroma/Flavor Profile
Last Updated
Source(s)
Hops Catalog