Items found matching the tag "mint"
Ivanhoe® is a distinguished heirloom variety that stands as a liquid link to the early days of American hop cultivation. Originally hailing from California, this Cluster derivative has not been grown commercially in over a century, making its recent revival by Hops-Meister Farm a significant event for brewing historians. While many contemporary varieties chase aggressive tropical notes, Ivanhoe represents a refined essence of the past, offering a "Noble" purity that emphasizes herbal grace over pungent resins. It is a variety defined by its subtlety, providing a rare opportunity for brewers to explore the authentic, soft-spoken character of California’s lost brewing heritage. The profile of Ivanhoe® is a sophisticated and nostalgic arrangement of the countryside. It leads with a primary bouquet of sweet hay, dried wildflowers, and damp earth, followed by a secondary layer of woody cedar and a subtle, minty freshness. Unlike the bold, fruit-forward hops of the modern age, Ivanhoe® is remarkably balanced and "polite," integrating seamlessly with the bready and biscuit-like notes of traditional base malts. On the palate, the bitterness is silky and restrained, leaving a clean, herbal finish that is both refreshing and deeply traditional. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking a nuanced, heritage character that emphasizes absolute drinkability and old-world elegance.
Kazbek is a powerful evolution of the Czech brewing tradition, often referred to as "Super Saaz" for its intensified aromatic capabilities. Developed at the Hop Research Institute in Žatec and released in 2008, this variety was born from a cross between the noble Saaz and a wild seedling found in the rugged Caucasus Mountains—sharing a genetic spirit similar to the American Cascade. Named after the towering Kazbek peak, it possesses the legendary finesse of the Old World but with a "wild" heart, thriving with a physical vigor that traditional noble hops often lack. It is the definitive choice for brewers who want the soul of a classic pilsner but with a modern, punchy aromatic lift that stands up to contemporary craft standards. The profile of Kazbek is a complex and spirited arrangement of bright citrus and earthy spice. It leads with a primary bouquet of lemon zest, sweet grapefruit, and fresh lime peel, followed closely by a sophisticated secondary layer of white pepper, spicy noble herbs, and a hint of wild mint. Because of its unique Caucasian heritage and high farnesene content, it provides a "zesty" aromatic clarity that is remarkably refreshing and vivid. On the palate, the bitterness is clean and structural, allowing the bright citrus notes to harmonize with a lingering, earthy finish. It is the premier choice for brewers seeking a bold, multidimensional hop that bridges the gap between traditional European elegance and modern craft intensity.
Lemondrop™ is a masterful expression of modern hop breeding, successfully uniting New World zest with the elegant structure of the Old World. Released by Hopsteiner in 2012, this variety was bred from Cascade and a USDA 19058 male, effectively functioning as a "Super Noble" hop that refines the foundational greatness of its parentage through the lens of its Tettnanger heritage. The result is a hop that favors clarity and sunshine over aggressive bitterness, providing a polished, professional finish. It has quickly become a staple for brewers who want to achieve a bright, integrated citrus pop that feels natural rather than overwhelming, making it a versatile performer for both traditional lagers and experimental farmhouse ales. The profile of Lemondrop™ is a vibrant and breezy arrangement of citrus groves and herbal meadows. It leads with a dominant primary bouquet of fresh lemon peel, lemon drop candy, and lemongrass, followed closely by a sophisticated secondary layer of green tea, mint, and soft wildflower honey. Unlike many American hops that lean into heavy pine or grapefruit, Lemondrop™ remains "airy" and bright, offering a delicate sweetness that rounds out the sharper citrus edges. On the palate, it delivers a crisp, incredibly clean bitterness that emphasizes the refreshing, thirst-quenching qualities of the beer. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking a focused, "zippy" lemon character that remains elegant and beautifully balanced.
Lime Burst is a vibrant and punchy newcomer to the hop world, specifically bred by Hopsteiner to deliver a massive, high-impact citrus experience. Representing the next generation of American aroma hops, this variety focuses on aromatic clarity and intense fruit saturation, moving away from the muddy mixtures of citrus and pine found in older cultivars. It is laser-focused on providing a bright, zesty character that mimics the refreshing quality of a freshly squeezed lime. For brewers looking to inject a vivid, sun-drenched citrus pop into their recipes without the use of actual fruit or extracts, Lime Burst serves as a professional-grade solution that offers unparalleled aromatic purity and reliability. The profile of Lime Burst is an assertive and refreshing explosion of cold-pressed lime zest and bright lemon peel. It leads with a dominant primary bouquet of Key lime, citrus oil, and a hint of white grapefruit, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of subtle floral blossoms and a whisper of herbal mint. Because of its high oil concentration and low cohumulone levels, it imparts a very clean, "electric" citrus sensation that feels light and buoyant on the palate. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking to achieve a saturated, juicy lime aroma that finishes with a crisp, thirst-quenching snap.
Limealicious® is a vibrant, citrus-forward powerhouse that serves as a regional answer to the high-demand lime varieties typically found in the Southern Hemisphere. Bred by Wild About Hops and released in 2020, this variety is a daughter of Motueka™ and is named for its unique lime-green leaves that glow with yellow-lime stripes in the sun. It was specifically designed to bridge the gap between traditional hop character and the intense, zesty fruit profiles required for modern "refreshment" beers. By leveraging parentage that excels in providing a consistent punch of citrus, Limealicious® offers a reliable alternative for brewers looking to achieve a massive lime presence without the use of extracts or fruit additions. The profile of Limealicious® is an assertive and refreshing explosion of bright citrus and tropical zest. It leads with a dominant primary bouquet of fresh lime peel, key lime pie, and lemon sorbet, followed closely by a sophisticated secondary layer of white pepper and light herbal mint. Unlike many hops that fade into a generic citrus character, Limealicious® maintains a focused, tart lime expression that cuts through the malt bill with precision. On the palate, it imparts a crisp, clean sensation with a faint, mojito-like sweetness, making it the premier choice for brewers seeking a vivid, zesty aromatic layer for light, crisp, and summer-focused beer styles.
Merkur is a titan of German hop engineering, standing as the first bittering variety specifically developed at the Hüll Hop Research Institute for superior disease resistance. Released in 2001, Merkur is a direct descendant of the legendary Hallertau Magnum, inheriting its parent's massive bittering potential while offering a more refined essential oil composition. It is a favorite among professional brewers for its incredible efficiency and "clean" bitterness. As a robust and high-yielding cultivar, Merkur thrives in the Hallertau region, providing a reliable foundation for a wide array of beer styles that require a firm, structural bitterness without the harshness often associated with other high-alpha varieties. The sensory profile of Merkur is a sophisticated and restrained arrangement of classic noble earthiness and subtle fruit. It leads with a primary, "meadow-fresh" bouquet of dried wildflowers and herbal spice, followed by a secondary layer of earthy resin and a light, citrusy snap. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant, polished mouthfeel and a hint of minty freshness. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels, Merkur delivers an exceptionally smooth, non-lingering bitterness and a crisp, slightly spicy finish—the definitive choice for those seeking a professional-grade bittering base with traditional European aromatic depth.
Motueka™ is a captivating New Zealand variety that represents a perfect bridge between Old World tradition and New World vibrancy. Originally developed by Plant & Food Research under the name "B Saaz," this triploid aroma hop was created by crossing the legendary Czech Saaz with a proprietary New Zealand breeding line. The result is a hop that possesses the refined, spicy structural integrity of a Noble hop, yet explodes with the zesty, tropical intensity characteristic of the Nelson and Tasman growing regions. This unique genetic makeup makes Motueka™ an indispensable dual-purpose tool, equally capable of providing a modern twist on a classic pilsner or adding a bright citrus "lift" to a hazy IPA. The sensory profile of Motueka™ is a vivid and refreshing arrangement of bright citrus and crushed tropical herbs. It leads with a primary, "zesty" bouquet of fresh lime zest, lemon balm, and mojito mint, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of sweet basil, floral honey, and a hint of green apple. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant "Noble" earthiness and a subtle peppery snap that remains exceptionally clean on the palate. Thanks to its balanced oil composition and high farnesene levels, Motueka™ delivers a soft, integrated bitterness and a crisp, effervescent finish—the definitive choice for imparting a sense of sun-drenched New Zealand brightness.
Mount Hood stands as the quintessential American "Noble" hop, a variety that revolutionized domestic brewing upon its release in 1989. Developed by the United States Department of Agriculture breeding program in Corvallis, Oregon, as a triploid daughter of the legendary Hallertau Mittelfrüh, Mount Hood was the first in a series of successful noble-style releases that included Liberty, Crystal, and Ultra. Its lineage is anchored by the prolific male USDA 19058M—the same genetic contributor behind heavy hitters like Lemondrop™, Super Galena™, and Sultana™. Engineered to bridge the gap between European tradition and American agricultural prowess, Mount Hood captures the soft, sophisticated essence of German landraces while thriving in the rich soils of the Pacific Northwest. The sensory profile of Mount Hood is a masterclass in subtlety, defined by its harmonious arrangement of forest herbs and sweet floral notes. It leads with a primary, "meadow-like" bouquet of wildflower honey, dried sage, and fresh-cut hay, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of earthy spice and a hint of lemon zest. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant herbal "snap" and a cooling minty undertone that remains exceptionally clean on the palate. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels and balanced oil composition, Mount Hood delivers a soft, rounded bitterness and a crisp, polished finish—the definitive choice for imparting a sense of timeless European heritage with a bright intensity.
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.
MultiHead is a botanical marvel and a revolutionary variety that represents a completely different genetic branch of the hop family tree. Sourced from wild neomexicanus plants in the high-altitude mountains of New Mexico, this hop is most commonly recognized by the trade name Medusa™. It derives its name from its unique physical characteristic: the ability to produce multiple "heads" or "tips" from a single cone node. Native to the American Southwest, MultiHead is built for extreme resilience, possessing a natural ability to thrive in heat and drought. For the modern brewer, it offers a window into a "wild" aromatic world with a chemical composition that can’t be replicated by standard European-derived cultivars. The sensory profile of MultiHead is a vibrant and exotic tapestry of lush tropical fruits and sun-soaked earth. It leads with a primary, "electric" bouquet of overripe guava, honeydew melon, and crushed pineapple, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of zesty lime peel and subtle wild mint/[tag]. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant "[tag]dank" herbal undertone and a hint of stone fruit that remains soft and rounded on the palate. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels and specific oil ratios, it delivers a smooth, non-aggressive bitterness and a long, fruit-saturated finish—the definitive choice for imparting an intense, "wild" tropical depth to modern hop-forward ales.
Nadwislanska is a storied heritage variety that offers an authentic window into the traditional hop gardens of Poland. A selection from an old Polish landrace, this green-stemmed variety is believed to have originated from ancient Czech lineages before becoming naturalized in the Vistula River region. Once a prominent contemporary to Lubelski, it eventually faded from commercial favor due to its modest agricultural yields and high susceptibility to viruses. Even after a heat-treated, virus-free version was developed to save the strain, it remains a rare find. It is a true "collector's hop," revered by traditionalists for providing a graceful, historically accurate foundation for regional Polish styles. The sensory profile of Nadwislanska is a delicate and sophisticated arrangement of wildflower meadows and soft herbal spice. It leads with a primary, "meadow-fresh" bouquet of fresh-cut hay, dried chamomile, and light honey, followed by a secondary layer of earthy spice and a faint, minty coolness. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant "Noble" snap and a hint of lemon zest that remains exceptionally smooth on the palate. Thanks to its very low cohumulone levels and notably high farnesene content, Nadwislanska delivers a soft, rounded bitterness and a crisp, evanescent finish—the definitive choice for imparting a sense of timeless Polish heritage.
Neo1 is a revolutionary variety that offers a true taste of the untamed American wilderness. Sourced from the high-altitude mountains of New Mexico, Neo1 is a pure neomexicanus cultivar—a sister to the Amalia hop—that is genetically distinct from the European landrace hops that have dominated brewing for centuries. This variety is celebrated for its extreme agricultural resilience, specifically thriving in the drier, arid soils where traditional cultivars might struggle. While it provides a stiff, assertive bitterness when used early in the boil, Neo1 reveals a much more refined side when added late, making it a standout for brewers looking to explore a completely different genetic lineage. The sensory profile of Neo1 is a bright and electric arrangement of intense citrus and sun-drenched earth. It leads with a primary, "zesty" bouquet of lemon sorbet, lime zest, and cracked black pepper, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of pineapple, wild mint, and a hint of stone fruit. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant herbal "snap" and a subtle resinous background that remains crisp and refreshing on the palate. Thanks to its remarkably low cohumulone levels and high myrcene content, Neo1 delivers a smooth, non-lingering bitterness and a saturated, zesty finish—the definitive choice for imparting a "wild" aromatic depth to modern craft innovations.
Nordgaard is a captivating window into the brewing history of Northern Europe. While its exact origins are debated—possibly a Belgian or Danish landrace—it remains most significant for its role in global hop development. In the 1970s, it was used extensively for breeding purposes by Dr. Tone Wagner at Zalec, Slovenia, helping to lay the genetic groundwork for many modern European varieties. As a traditional landrace, Nordgaard belongs to a resilient lineage adapted to unique light cycles and short growing seasons. Though no longer grown commercially, it is a prized variety for historical enthusiasts seeking an authentic "Old World" soul for traditional farmhouse ales. The sensory profile of Nordgaard is a delicate and nostalgic arrangement of forest floor and spring blossoms. It leads with a primary, "meadow-like" bouquet of fresh-cut grass, herbal tea, and damp cedar, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of wildflower honey and a subtle, minty coolness. As the profile develops, brewers will find a gentle, rounded bitterness and a faint earthy "snap" that remains exceptionally clean on the palate. Thanks to its low alpha acid content and high humulene-to-myrcene ratio, Nordgaard delivers a soft, understated aromatic presence and a crisp finish—the definitive choice for imparting a sense of timeless European heritage.
Northern Brewer is a legendary workhorse variety that bridges the historical gap between European tradition and the birth of American craft brewing. Released in 1934 by the renowned Wye College in England, this hop is the result of a cross between Brewer's Gold and a Canterbury Golding male. Though it began its journey in the English countryside, Northern Brewer traveled the globe to become a staple in both the Hallertau gardens of Germany and the hop yards of the Pacific Northwest. It is a robust, dual-purpose cultivar known for its immense versatility and structural reliability, serving as the definitive choice for the "rough-hewn" woodsy and minty backbone required for heritage styles like California Common. The sensory profile of Northern Brewer is a masterful arrangement of forest resins and cooling herbal/[tag] [tag]spice. It leads with a primary, "evergreen" bouquet of fresh pine needles, damp cedar, and wild mint, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of earthy spice and subtle lime zest. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant herbal "snap" and a faint hint of dark fruit that remains clean and substantial on the palate. Thanks to its balanced oil composition and moderate cohumulone levels, Northern Brewer delivers a firm, assertive bitterness that integrates seamlessly into malt-forward beers without becoming harsh—imparting a sense of timeless, rustic depth with a polished finish.
Northern Brewer (DE) is a distinguished dual-purpose variety that serves as the "clean" backbone of traditional German brewing. Although its genetic roots trace back to the English Wye College program of the 1930s, this variety has been perfectly acclimated to the world-renowned growing regions of Hallertau and Tettnang. While it shares the same name as its English and American cousins, the specific German terroir has refined it into a more sophisticated, "Noble-adjacent" hop. Favored for its exceptional reliability, Northern Brewer (DE) provides a firm, structural bitterness that allows delicate continental malt profiles to shine without being overshadowed. The sensory profile of Northern Brewer (DE) is a masterful arrangement of deep forest resins and elegant herbal spice. It leads with a primary, "woodland" bouquet of cedar wood, pine needles, and fresh mint, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of wild honey and damp earth. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant herbal "snap" and a subtle hint of blackcurrant that provides a rich, substantial finish. Thanks to its high humulene content and moderate cohumulone levels, it delivers a firm yet incredibly smooth bitterness. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking an authentic, woodsy aromatic depth for classic lagers and regional German ales.
Northern Brewer (US) is a legendary dual-purpose variety that bridges the gap between traditional British elegance and the rugged intensity of American craft brewing. While the lineage originally traces back to Wye College in the 1930s, the American version is genetically distinct—a cross between an English Northern Brewer and a Native American varietal. Finding a second home in the United States, the unique terroir of the Pacific Northwest amplified its bold, resinous characteristics. Most famous as the signature hop of the California Common (Steam Beer), Northern Brewer (US) provides a sturdy, reliable bitterness and a complex aromatic footprint that has anchored American brewing for decades. The sensory profile of Northern Brewer (US) is a sophisticated and assertive arrangement of forest resins and cool herbal spice. It leads with a primary, "rustic" bouquet of fresh evergreen pine and pungent mint, followed by a secondary layer of earthy cedar and dark chocolate. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant "woody" dryness and a subtle hint of blackcurrant that provides a rich, substantial finish. Thanks to its balanced oil composition and moderate cohumulone levels, it delivers a firm, clean bitterness that integrates perfectly into malt-forward styles, offering an authentic, "old-school" depth with a polished edge.
Orion is a distinguished German dual-purpose hop that represents the refined breeding standards of the Hüll Hop Research Center. Developed in the mid-1980s as a cross between the legendary Perle and the German male 70/10/15, Orion was engineered to bridge the gap between the delicate aromatics of traditional landrace varieties and the robust bitterness of modern hops. It offers brewers a resilient and reliable ingredient that thrives in the Hallertau climate. Orion is particularly valued for its ability to provide a clean, structural bitterness while maintaining a complex aromatic depth, making it a foundational choice for classic continental lagers and assertive regional ales. The sensory profile of Orion is a masterful arrangement of spicy resin and refreshing forest notes. It leads with a primary, "woodland" bouquet of fresh pine needles and herbal spice, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of wildflower honey and dried grass. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant "cool" mintiness and a subtle woody earthiness that remains exceptionally clean on the palate. Thanks to its balanced oil composition and moderate alpha levels, Orion delivers a firm yet smooth bitterness and a crisp, polished finish. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking to impart a sense of timeless "Noble" quality with an added layer of resinous intensity.
Pacific Crest™ is a premier "American Noble" variety that brings the elegance of the Old World to the fertile soils of the Yakima Valley. Originally developed by Roy Farms and featured as a signature blend by Yakima Chief, this hop was engineered to provide brewers with a domestic alternative to traditional European landrace varieties without sacrificing aromatic finesse. Pacific Crest™ is celebrated for its remarkable consistency and its clean, non-aggressive personality, allowing it to shine in delicate lager styles and balanced ales alike. It represents a successful marriage of classic heritage and modern American agronomics, offering a sophisticated tool for brewers who value subtlety and precision. The sensory profile of Pacific Crest™ is an intricate arrangement of soft florals and refined herbal spice. It leads with a primary, "garden-fresh" bouquet of dried lavender, lilac, and fresh-cut hay, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of bright lemon zest and earthy cedar. As the profile develops, brewers will find a pleasant "cool" mintiness and a touch of sweet peppercorn that remains exceptionally smooth on the palate. Thanks to its very low cohumulone levels and high humulene content, Pacific Crest™ delivers a gentle, polished bitterness and a crisp, clean finish—perfect for those seeking a timeless, noble-style depth with Pacific Northwest clarity.
Pekko® is a modern American powerhouse that challenges the traditional boundaries of hop aromatics. Developed by the American Dwarf Hop Association (now Latitude 46), this proprietary variety was named in honor of the Finnish god of farming—a fitting tribute to its impressive vigor and high essential oil content. Pekko® is highly regarded in the craft world for its remarkable versatility; it possesses the high alpha acids required for efficient, clean bittering while simultaneously offering a complex, nuanced aromatic signature. It is a standout choice for those looking to move beyond standard citrus profiles, providing a sophisticated character that shines in everything from crisp lagers to experimental ales. The sensory profile of Pekko® is incredibly intricate, characterized by its unique "floral-fruit" elegance and refreshing herbal undertones. It leads with a primary, "crisp" bouquet of pineapple, pear, and stone fruit, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of cucumber, sage, and fresh mint. As the profile develops, brewers will find a distinct floral quality reminiscent of lily and lemon thyme, which provides a bright, clean finish. Thanks to its high oil saturation and balanced bitterness, Pekko® delivers a saturated aromatic presence and a polished mouthfeel, making it the definitive choice for a complex, refreshing, and entirely modern aromatic depth.
Perle is a cornerstone of modern continental brewing, representing the perfect marriage of English structural strength and German aromatic finesse. Developed at the Hüll Hop Research Center in Germany and released commercially in 1978, it was bred as a cross between Northern Brewer and a German male plant. Originally engineered to be a more disease-resistant and reliable alternative to Hallertau, Perle has grown to become one of the most trusted dual-purpose hops in the world. It offers brewers a stable bittering base alongside a refined, clean aromatic profile, making it a fundamental ingredient for everything from traditional Bavarian lagers to robust, dark ales. The sensory profile of Perle is defined by its clean, spicy elegance and refreshing herbal character. It leads with a primary, "cool" bouquet of fresh mint, cedar, and forest floor, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of delicate wildflowers and green tea. As the profile develops, brewers will find a subtle earthy spice and a soft woody undertone that remains impeccably balanced. Thanks to its moderate alpha levels and refined oil composition, Perle delivers a firm but remarkably smooth bitterness and a crisp, polished finish. It is the definitive choice for brewers seeking a versatile hop that imparts a sense of timeless "Noble" quality with an added layer of herbal complexity.
Perle (US) is a quintessential dual-purpose hop that successfully blends traditional German elegance with the robust growing power of the American Pacific Northwest. While it shares the same lineage as the original German variety—descending from Northern Brewer—the American-grown version typically boasts a higher alpha-acid content. Brought to US soil to provide brewers with a reliable, high-performing crop, Perle (US) offers exceptional storage stability and consistent year-over-year performance. It has become a definitive "workhorse" in the brewhouse, favored by those who require a versatile ingredient that can provide the structural backbone for a crisp lager or the aromatic nuance for a complex ale. The sensory profile of Perle (US) is a masterful balance of spicy noble characteristics and refreshing herbal notes. It leads with a primary, "woodland" bouquet of fresh mint, cedar, and forest floor, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of delicate wildflowers and soft pepper. As the profile develops, brewers will find subtle hints of green tea and a clean, woody earthiness that is often more pronounced than its European counterparts. Thanks to its balanced chemical composition and moderate alpha levels, Perle (US) delivers a firm but smooth bitterness and a crisp finish, making it the definitive choice for a timeless continental quality with a bright, clean American edge.
Progress is a distinguished British aroma hop that captures a pivotal moment in the evolution of English brewing. Bred in 1951 at Wye College by Horticulture Research International and commercially released in 1964, it was engineered by Professor Neve to be the successor to Fuggle. This variety was born from a cross between a Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) female and a US male plant, specifically designed to combat the Verticillium Wilt that plagued traditional Fuggle gardens. While it brought improved vigor and higher yields to growers, it became a favorite of brewers for its sophisticated, mellow profile and refined balance, serving as a cornerstone for traditional cask ales and heritage bitters. The sensory profile of Progress is a masterful arrangement of soft bitterness and classic English spice. It leads with a primary, "mellow" bouquet of sweet honey, fresh-cut grass, and a refined floral sweetness, followed by a sophisticated secondary layer of earthy mint and cedar. As the profile develops, brewers will find a subtle, marmalade-like fruitiness and a clean, peppery spice that is notably brighter and less "grassy" than a traditional Fuggle. Thanks to its high humulene content and low cohumulone levels, Progress delivers a smooth, rounded bitterness and a polished finish, making it the definitive choice for a timeless British character with a clean aromatic edge.
Record is a vintage Belgian aroma hop that represents a golden era of European hop breeding. Developed in 1958 (registered pre-1970), it was engineered through the open pollination of Northern Brewer and Saaz to bridge the gap between robust field performance and delicate "Noble" finesse. For decades, it was a staple in Belgian hop gardens, particularly in Flanders, prized for its reliable yields in cool, temperate climates. While it has become a niche variety in the modern market, Record is revered by traditionalists for its "Noble-plus" character—offering a slightly more assertive profile than a standard Saaz while remaining perfectly balanced for classic continental styles. The sensory profile of Record is a sophisticated blend of rustic spice and gentle floral sweetness, with aroma characteristics reminiscent of its Northern Brewer heritage. It leads with a primary, "old-world" bouquet of fresh wildflowers, sweet hay, and a distinct peppery spiciness. As the profile develops, brewers will find secondary notes of mint, pine, and a subtle earthiness that provides a more rugged complexity than its Saaz parentage. Thanks to its balanced oil composition and moderate alpha-acid levels, Record delivers a clean, smooth bitterness and a refined finish, making it the definitive choice for authentic Belgian ales or European pilsners with a polished aromatic depth.
Relax has a low alpha content but high beta and oil content, making it a great for Relax is a groundbreaking variety from Germany’s Hüll Hop Research Center, designed to redefine the traditional utility of the hop plant. Originally bred for use in herbal teas due to its refreshing and calming profile, it is a near-zero alpha variety that is virtually useless for bittering but invaluable for its aromatic properties. Relax is prized for its high beta-acid and total oil content, making it a "wellness-focused" powerhouse. While it has found a niche in the craft beer world—particularly for alcohol-free brews and late-kettle additions—its primary legacy remains in the production of high-quality hop teas and therapeutic supplements where its gentle, soothing character can truly shine. The sensory profile of Relax is the embodiment of tranquility—soft, herbal, and profoundly floral. It leads with a primary, "meadow-like" bouquet of cornflower, lemongrass, and hibiscus, followed by a sophisticated sweetness reminiscent of honeydew melon. As the profile develops, brewers and tea-makers will find secondary notes of rose petals, lavender, and chamomile layered over a background of fresh lemon balm. Because it provides zero perceptible bitterness, Relax allows its "pure" essential oil character to dominate the palate. It is the definitive choice for those seeking a floral elegance that promotes a sense of well-being without the aggressive resin or spice of traditional hops.
Sabro™ is a groundbreaking American aroma hop that offers a flavor profile unlike anything else in the brewing world. Released in 2018 by the Hop Breeding Company, its distinctive character stems from a unique lineage—a cross-pollination involving a wild female neomexicanus hop from the mountains of New Mexico. This "New World" heritage makes Sabro™ an incredibly expressive and robust performer in the brewhouse. Prized for its exceptionally high oil content, it serves as a top-tier finishing hop that translates intense tropical characteristics remarkably well from the whirlpool to the glass, making it the definitive choice for brewers looking to push the boundaries of modern flavor. The sensory profile of Sabro™ is a saturated and complex tapestry of tropical, citrus, and stone fruits, famously anchored by a singular "coconut and cream" character. It leads with a primary bouquet of tangerine, passionfruit, and lime zest, followed by lush layers of coconut, cream, and vanilla. As the profile develops, brewers will find sophisticated secondary notes of cedar, fresh mint, and stone fruit. Because of its high total oil content and balanced cohumulone levels, Sabro delivers a smooth bitterness and a lingering, "juicy" aromatic impact, providing a creamy, decadent mouthfeel that defines the modern tropical beer experience.
Styrian Celeia is a world-class Slovenian aroma hop that represents a modern, high-performance refinement of the traditional Styrian Golding lineage. Developed as a triploid hybrid at Slovenian Institute of Hop Research and Brewing and released in 1990, Celeia is a complex genetic masterpiece born from a cross between Styrian Golding, Styrian Aurora, and a wild Slovenian hop. This pedigree allows it to maintain the prestigious "Noble" heritage of the English Fuggle while offering the increased resin content and agricultural vigor needed for modern brewing. While it is sometimes described as a near "carbon copy" of Fuggle, Celeia is actually a more robust and versatile "dual-aroma" variety. Though it hasn't seen the same massive commercial footprint as some of its siblings, it remains a favorite among "brewers in the know" who demand a clean, reliable anchor for the soul of classic European lagers and complex Belgian ales.
Styrian Kolibri is a refined Slovenian aroma variety that represents the delicate side of modern hop innovation. Released in 2017 by the Slovenian Institute of Hop Research and Brewing, it was developed from a sophisticated blend of European and American germplasm. The goal was to provide brewers with a precise aromatic tool that bridges the gap between the classic "Noble" tradition and contemporary fruit-forward cultivars. While its name—the Hummingbird—suggests a light, ephemeral touch, Kolibri possesses a remarkably high oil content that ensures its complex bouquet remains vibrant through the brewing process. It is a standout variety for brewers who prioritize nuance and elegance, offering a clean agricultural pedigree and a unique chemical composition that excels in both traditional European lagers and modern, expressive ales.
Sussex is a fascinating "chance find" that proves nature is sometimes the best hop breeder. Discovered in 2005 by Peter Cyster on the Gate Court farm in Northiam, a site that has been cultivating hops since at least 1900, this variety was literally plucked from a hedgerow. While most hops are the result of rigorous laboratory crosses, Sussex is believed to be a unique, open-pollinated dwarf hop that emerged wildly in the English countryside. Propagated by Cyster after he noticed its promising growth habits, Sussex has become a celebrated "terroir" hop. It represents the historic growing conditions of Southern England so perfectly that it was famously championed by Harvey’s Brewery for their "Sussex Wild Hop" series. It is a vigorous, dwarf-habit plant that tells a story of traditional brewing revived through a lucky discovery in the brambles.
Discovered growing naturally in the rugged canyons of Colorado, Willow Creek is a true North American original. As a member of the neomexicanus subspecies, it evolved independently of European hop lineages, giving it a genetic "wildness" that is entirely unique. It shares a close kinship with other native stars like Amalia and MultiHead, yet it stands out for its impressive resilience; unlike many of its desert cousins, Willow Creek shows a surprising tolerance for moisture and colder mountain temperatures. For the craft brewer, Willow Creek is more than just an ingredient—it’s a taste of the American West’s wild terroir. It offers a chance to brew with a plant that has thrived in the wild for millennia, long before the first commercial hop yards were ever tilled.
Zappa™ is named after the avant-garde rock legend Frank Zappa, this hop is just as eclectic and non-conformist as its namesake. Unlike the vast majority of hops that trace their roots back to Europe, Zappa is a native North American variety belonging to the neomexicanus subspecies. Discovered growing wild in the mountains of New Mexico and brought to the world by CLS Farms, it represents a genetically distinct "wildness" that evolved independently of traditional brewing varieties. For the homebrewer, Zappa is the ultimate tool for experimental expression. It breaks every "rule" in the book, offering a flavor profile that shifts and evolves with every sip. It’s a favorite for those looking to push the boundaries of what a hop can be, bridging the gap between tropical fruit sweetness and savory, "funky" complexity.