Hop Varieties
This is a list of varieties of hop (Humulus lupulus).
As there are male and female plants, the flowers (cones) of the female plant are fertilized by the pollen of the male flowers with the result that the female flowers form seeds. These seeds are eaten by birds and hence spread over vast distances. Hops, specifically their female plants, have been grown as a commercial crop for the brewing industry for many centuries in many countries. The first documented mention of a hop garden is in the will of Pepyn III. The first breeding of different hop varieties took place at Wye College in Kent, England by E. S. Salmon in 1919 when he bred the varieties “Brewer’s Gold” and “Bullion”. As of 2012, there are around 80 varieties in commercial use around the world, and considerably more in development/trials.
American
Ahtanum brand YCR 1 cv
Ahtanum brand YCR 1 cv is an aroma-type cultivar bred by Yakima Chief Ranches. It is used for its aromatic properties and moderate bittering. It has unique aromas that include citrus (grapefruit), earthy, and floral. The variety is named after the location where Charles Carpenter established the first hop farm in the Yakima Valley in 1869. Typical alpha acids range from 5%–7%, and beta acids range from 5%–6%. Typical total oils (Mls. per 100 grams dried hops) 0.8 – 1.2.
Amarillo brand VGXP01 cv
Popular American mid-range alpha acid variety with a unique and distinct aroma discovered growing “wild” (spontaneously) in one of their hop yards and developed by Virgil Gamache Farms in the late 20th century. Also known as VGXP01, and named in honor of Virgil Gamache the patriarch of the family.
Apollo
Characterized by its exceptionally high percentage of alpha acids (15.0 – 19.0%), excellent storage stability of alpha acids, low CoH (CoHumulone) value for an alpha variety, and resistance to hop powdery mildew strains found in Washington. The new variety was cultivated as a result of a cross in 2000 at Golden Gate Roza Hop Ranches in Prosser, Washington, and has been asexually reproduced there.
Alpha acids: 15 – 19% (ASBC Spectrophotometric method)
Beta acids: 5,5 – 8% (ASBC Spectrophotometric method)
Alpha/beta ratio: 3.0–3.5
Cohumulone (% of alpha-acids): 24–28%
Colupulone (%of beta-acids): 52%
Total oils (mls/100 g): 1.5–2.5
Humulene (% of total oils): 20–35%
Azacca
Azacca has predominately citrus and tropical fruit notes, consisting of mango, papaya, orange, grapefruit, lemon, piney, spicy, pineapple, grassy, tropical fruit, citrus aromas. Named after the Haitian god of agriculture, Azacca. Alpha: 14–16%; Beta: 4.0–5.5%[1][2][3]
Bravo
A second generation super high alpha variety that was developed by the Hopsteiner Breeding Program and released in 2006. It has good resistance to powdery mildew. Bravo is an excellent bittering hop that provides pleasant fruity and floral aroma characteristics.[4]
Calypso
Dual-purpose high alpha hop with aromas of pear, apple and earthy tea.
Cascade
Very successful and well-established American aroma hop developed by USDA-ARS’s breeding program in 1956 from Fuggle and Serebrianker (a Russian variety), but not released for cultivation until 1972. It has a flowery and spicy, citrus-like quality with a slight grapefruit characteristic. One of the “Three Cs” along with Centennial and Columbus. Substitutes: Centennial and Columbus (but they have a higher Alpha Acid content).
Centennial
American aroma-type variety bred in 1974 and released in September 1990 by S.T. Kenny and C.E. Zimmermann, the breeders of this variety. Similar to Cascade and Chinook. The genetic composition is 3/4 Brewers Gold, 3/32 Fuggle, 1/6 Golding, 1/32 Bavarian and 1/16 Unknown. One of the “Three Cs” along with Cascade and Columbus. Centennial is often referred to as a ‘Super Cascade’, since it has a strong citrus aroma.
Chelan
A high alpha variety with a very high percentage of beta acids. The variety was developed through the John I. Haas, Inc., breeding program and released in 1994. It is a daughter of Galena and therefore has analytical data similar to Galena.[5]
Chinook
This green bine cultivar (W-421-38) was released in May 1985 in Washington State and Idaho from a cross between a Petham Golding and a USDA-selected male (63012M). Slightly spicy and very piney. Its alpha acid content ranges from 12 to 14%. Substitutes for bittering: Eroica, Galena, Nugget. Substitutes for aroma and flavor: Southern Cross, Sticklebract.
Citra brand HBC 394 cv
Citra Brand is a registered trademark used with HBC 394 cv special aroma hop variety developed by the Hop Breeding Company (a joint venture between John I. Haas, Inc. and Select Botanicals Group, LLC) and funded by Sierra Nevada, Deschutes, and Widmer Brothers breweries.[6] It was released in 2007. Citra Brand hops have fairly high alpha acids and total oil contents with a low percentage of cohumulone content. Citra Brand hops imparts citrus (grapefruit) and tropical fruit characters to beer.
Cluster
Originated from mass selection of the Cluster hop, which is an old American cultivar. It is suggested that they arose from hybridization of varieties, imported by Dutch and English settlers and indigenous male hops. There is an early ripening and a late ripening Cluster cultivar. Also known as Golden Cluster. They can give a blackcurrant aroma/flavor. Substitutes: Brewer’s Gold.
Columbus
A high yielding, high alpha acid American bittering hop. Also known by the trade name Tomahawk. One of the “Three Cs” along with Cascade and Centennial. Like the others it is citrusy and slightly woody. Columbus has a very high amount of total oils, and can impart a ‘resiny’ quality to a beer. Substitutes for bittering: Nugget, Chinook. Substitutes for aroma and flavor: Cascade, Centennial.
Comet
A rare US grown hop, originally bred for its bittering characteristics. Said to have character similar to wild American hops that are “objectionable to some brewers”[7]
Crystal
An American triploid variety developed in 1993 from Hallertau, Cascade, Brewer’s Gold and Early Green. It is spicier than Hallertau (cinnamon, black pepper, and nutmeg). Substitutes: any Hallertau variety, Mount Hood, Liberty.
El Dorado
Developed by CLS Farms and formally released in the fall of 2010. High alpha with tropical fruit flavors.[8]
Eroica
This cultivar with its pale green bine was bred in 1968 with its sister Galena from Brewers Gold with an open pollination. It was released in 1979 in Idaho, one of the three hop cultivation areas on America’s West Coast It is strongly “catty” flavored bittering hop with an alpha acid content ranging from 10 to 13% and used often in wheat beers. Substitutes: Galena, Nugget, Olympic.
Galena
A cultivar developed in 1968 from Brewer’s Gold by open pollination in Idaho. An open pollination means that the male hop is unknown. The alpha acid content is relatively high—11.5 to 13.5%—but its co-humulone content and its beta acid range are also high.
Glacier
Low-cohumulone American Fuggle descendant. Substitutes: Eroica, Nugget, Olympic.
Greenburg
American Hop grown in southern Idaho.
Horizon
American high alpha cross made in Oregon in 1970. Horizon and Nugget share a common parent (#65009).
Liberty
American 1983 cross between Hallertauer Mittlefrüh (USDA 21397) and downy mildew resistant male (USDA 64035M). Spicy (cinnamon), resiny, and slightly sweet. It is an early ripening variety and similar in technical data and aroma to Hallertau Mittelfrueh. Recommended for German/American lagers. Alpha acids are relatively low at 2-6%. Substitutes: Mount Hood, Hallertau, Crystal.
Millennium
Millennium is a high alpha variety bred in the John I. Haas, Inc. breeding program and released in 2000. Its brewing profile is comparable to Nugget and Columbus, being used primarily as a bittering hop with strong alpha potential.[4]
Mount Hood
Soft American variety developed from Hallertau. Frequently used in styles that require only a subtle hop aroma (German/American lagers). Named for Mount Hood in Oregon. Substitutes: Liberty, Hallertau, Crystal.
Mount Rainier
Originally cultivated in Oregon. Mount Rainier has a complex parentage, including Hallertau, Galena, Fuggle and other hops, and exhibits some noble hop characteristics, but is higher in alpha acid. The aroma is reminiscent of licorice with a hint of citrus.
Mosaic brand HBC 369 cv
Mosaic™ Brand HBC 369 cv is a daughter of the YCR 14 cv hop variety and a Nugget derived male. It has high alpha acids and tropical, blueberry, tangerine, floral, and earthy aromas.[9]
Newport
Recently developed American high-alpha bittering hop.
Nugget
Floral, resiny aroma and flavor. Primarily a bittering hop. Substitutes: Galena, Olympic.
Palisade brand YCR 4 cv
Palisade brand YCR 4 hop variety is an aroma hop that is known for its amazing yield and unique aroma. It invokes apricot, grass, and floral notes and is used regularly in commercial brewing[citation needed].
San Juan Ruby Red
Discovered growing wild in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. Open pollinated hops. Aroma is fruity and slightly sweet. A newly developed American aroma hop that contains noble hop characteristics.
Santiam
American floral aroma hop with mid-range alpha acid. Pedigree includes Tettnang (mother), Hallertau Mittelfrüh (grandmother) and Cascade (great grandmother). Named for the Santiam River in Oregon.
Satus
A bittering-type cultivar of recent origin, produced by Yakima Chief Ranches in Washington State.[10]
Simcoe brand YCR 14 cv
In 2000, Select Botanicals Group released the Simcoe Brand YCR 14 hop variety which is an aroma variety known for its versatility and unique characteristics. Simcoe Brand hops boasts several different aromas including passion fruit, pine, earthy, and citrus, and also has strong bittering qualities with an alpha acid level of 12%-14%. It is used extensively in the craft and home brewing industry.
Sonnet Golding
Low alpha American-grown Golding variety.
Sterling
American floral hop released in 1998. A cross between Saaz and Mount Hood in character but easier to grow.
Summit
Useful for barleywines, stouts and IPAs. Alpha acid 17-19%, Beta Acids 4.0 – 6.0%. Trademarked.
Super Galena
Super Galena is a very super high alpha variety developed by the Hopsteiner breeding program and released in 2006. It has relatively high contents of both alpha and beta acids, making it a good bittering hop with pleasant aroma. Super Galena is comparable to Galena in its aroma and bitterness profile, but offers a substantially higher yield and complete resistance to all current hop powdery mildew strains found in the U.S.[4]
Tillicum
A high alpha variety with a very high content of beta acids. The variety was developed through the John I. Haas, Inc. breeding program and released in 1995. It is a daughter of Galena and a full sister to Chelan and therefore has analytical data similar to both varieties.[5]
Tomahawk
Trade name for Columbus.
Ultra
A triploid aroma-type cultivar, originated in 1983 from a cross between the colchicine-induced tetraploid Hallertau mf (USDA 21397) and the diploid Saazer-derived male genotype (USDA 21237m). Ultra is the half-sister to Mount Hood, Liberty and Crystal. Its genetic composition is 4/6 Hallertau mf, 1/6 Saazer, and 1/6 unknown. This cultivar was released for commercial production in March, 1995. It has a peppery, spicy aroma similar to Saaz. Substitutes: Crystal, Saaz, Tettnanger.
Vanguard
American aroma cross developed from Hallertau in 1982. Adds a sweet, slightly spicy aroma and flavor. A granddaughter of Hallertau Mittlefruh, it has all the Hallertau characteristics you would expect. Typical Beer Styles: Lager, Pilsner, Bock, Kolsch, Wheat Beers, Munich Helles, Belgian-Style Ales.
Warrior brand YCR 5 cv
Warrior brand YCR 5 cv hop variety is an alpha hop used for its mild, clean bittering qualities. It is widely used in American pale ales and IPAs.
Willamette
Popular American development in 1976 of the English Fuggle. Named for the Willamette Valley, an important hop-growing area. It has a character similar to Fuggle, but is more fruity and has some floral notes. Used in British and American ales. A recent taste-test comparison between Ahtanum and Willamette has described some similarity between the varieties.[11]
Zeus
American aromatic high-alpha hop. Similar, if not identical, to Columbus/Tomahawk. Columbus/Tomahawk/Zeus hops are sometimes referred to as “CTZ hops.”
Zythos
Actually a blend of American hops, specifically designed by Hop Union for American Pale Ale (APA) and India Pale Ale (IPA) style beers. Reportedly a blend of Simcoe, Citra, Palisade and Amarillo, it has distinct tropical (pineapple) and citrus tones, with slight pine characteristics.
English
Admiral
An English bittering hop used in some English ales. Substitutes: Target, Northdown, Challenger.
Bramling Cross
Dual Purpose Hop developed in 1951 by Professor Salmon at Wye College, England. A cross between the Bramling goldings variety and a wild Canadian Manitoban hop. Known to impart an “American” aroma in some strains.
Brewer’s Gold
British bittering hop developed in 1919. Both Brewer’s Gold and Bullion are seedlings of BB1 (found wild in Manitoba). Many modern high alpha hops were developed from Brewer’s Gold. Has a resiny, spicy aroma/flavor with hints of black currant. Substitutions: Northdown.
Bullion
Bittering hop. One of the earliest high alpha hops in the world. Raised in 1919 in England from a wild Manitoban female crossed with an English male hop. Mainly bittering Stouts and Dark ales. This hop has a resiny/earthy aroma/flavor and can be a bit rough. Substitutions: Northern Brewer and Galena.
Challenger
English hop. Introduced in 1972. Very popular dual-purpose hop in English ales. Used in many traditional English Bitters. When used for bittering, Challenger can impart a pleasant and complex marmalade/toffee/citrus flavour, which enhances strong ales. Substitutes: East Kent Goldings, Phoenix, Styrian Goldings, British Columbian Goldings.
First Gold
The first English commercial grown dwarf hop, released in 1995 and bred by Wye College in Kent. A cross-pollination of Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) and a dwarf male. Its aroma resembles a mixture of Goldings and Challenger hops . The alpha acid content ranges from 6.5% to 8.5%. Substitutes: A mix of East Kent Goldings and Crystal (for the cinnamon).
Fuggle
Classic English aroma hop which is known as Styrian Goldings in Europe and is a parent of many New World hops such as Cascade, Centennial and Willamette. This variety was noticed growing “wild” in the hop garden of George Stace Moore’s house at Horsmonden in Kent, England in 1861. In 1875 it was commercialised by Richard Fuggle who lived in the village of Brenchley (not far from Horsmonden) and hence it was called Fuggle. The aroma is earthier and less sweet than Goldings. Substitutes: Willamette.
Goldings
The quintessential English hop, Goldings is a group of related clones that harvest at different times such as Cobbs, Amos’ Early Bird, Eastwell, Mathon, East Kent and historical clones such as Bramling, Canterbury, Rodmersham and Petham.[12] However Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV, see below) is at best a relative of this group and Styrian Goldings is a European synonym for Fuggle. East Kent Goldings (EKG) have been sold as such since 1838[13] and are the only hop to have a Protected Designation of Origin like Jersey Royal potatoes. To qualify for the designation they must be grown in a designated area of East Kent and conform to a standard chemical “fingerprint”. The terroir of East Kent is particularly suited to hop growing, with brick clay over chalk and cold, salt-laden winds off the North Sea.[14] “Kent Goldings” come from elsewhere in Kent.
Goldings are used for bittering and late hopping,[12] particularly in combination with Fuggle. They are known for a smooth, sweet bitterness with spicy and earthy aromas.[12] Typically they have 4-9.5% alpha acids, 0.4-0.8% total oils and negligible farnesene.[12] The family is first reported in the 1750s as the Farnham Whitebine of Surrey which gave rise to the Canterbury Whitebine, one of which was selected by a Mr Golding in the 1790s. Goldings are tall, low yielding and susceptible to powdery mildew, downy mildew and Verticillium wilt – much of the research at Wye College has been driven by the need to improve these traits.
Herald
An English aroma and bittering hop; sister of Pioneer. Substitutes: Pioneer.
Northdown
Dual purpose hop in England developed in the 1970s. Relative of Challenger and Target. Very resiny. Substitutes: Phoenix or blend of Goldings and Brewers Gold.
Northern Brewer
Developed in England in 1934 from a cross between a Canterbury Golding female plant and the male plant OB21.[15][16] Grown in Europe and America as a dual-purpose hop, but mainly used for bittering in combination with other hops. Woody/earthy/fruity aroma and flavor. Substitutes: Hallertau, Pride of Ringwood, Bullion.[16]
Phoenix
Dual-purpose English hop, mild aroma and slightly spicy flavor.[17] Substitutes: Challenger.
Pilgrim
Bred at the Horticultural Research Institute in Wye, England. Released 2000. Dual purpose with lemon tones.
Pilot
Previously known as S24 (nicknamed Ros) this UK hedgerow variety was officially named as ‘Pilot’ in May 2002 by Charles Faram & Co Ltd. The variety is wilt resistant, has good aroma and alpha properties and yields well.
Pioneer
English hop; a sister of Herald. Distinct bitter lemon flavour. Substitutes: East Kent Goldings, Herald.
Progress
Higher alpha English hop developed in the 1960s as a replacement for Fuggle. Often used with Goldings.
Target
English mid-to-high alpha hop bred from Kent Goldings. Substitutes: Fuggle, Willamette.
Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV)
Bred by Edward Albert White of Yalding, Kent, England in 1911 from open pollination of Bates Brewer. It acquired the name Whitbread Golding after the brewery bought the farms in 1920 when Mr White retired. Whitbread did not acknowledge the work Mr White had achieved in hop cultivation by keeping his name. It is not a true golding but also not dissimilar it is more robust with distinguishing sweet fruity note.
German
Hallertauer Herkules
Cross between Hallertauer Taurus and a powdery mildew resistant Hüll male breeding line. High alpha bittering hop. Released 2005.
Hallertauer Magnum
A bittering/aroma type cultivar, bred in 1980 at the Hop Research Center Hüll. It was bred from the American variety Galena with a German male hop (75/5/3). It seems to contribute to a smooth bitterness combined with a good aroma. This variety is now also cultivated in the U.S.
Hallertauer Taurus
High to super-high alpha bittering hop. Bred at the Hop Research Center Hüll in Germany.[18]
Huell Melon
Aroma hop variety featuring fruity honeydew melon and apricot aroma. Alpha acids 7–8%, beta acids 7–8%, cohumulone 25–30%, polyphenols 3%. Very high concentration of limonene. Bred at the Hop Research Center Hüll in Germany from a cross between Cascade and the Hüll male breeding line 2004/026/007 (94/045/001 × wild PM resistant male). One of the four Hüll “Special Flavor Hops” registered to the European Community Plant Variety Office in 2012.[19][20]
Magnum
A high alpha acid bittering hop with mild flavor and low aromatic characteristics. Commercial examples include Sierra Nevada Torpedo, Pale Ale, and Badgers Snatch. 11.0 to 16.0% alpha acid.
Mandarina Bavaria
Aroma hop variety featuring fruity mandarin orange and citrus aroma. Alpha acids 7–10%, beta acids 4–7%, cohumulone 28–35%. Very high geraniol concentration. The most aroma-active compounds are myrcene and linalool. Bred in 2007 at the Hop Research Center Hüll in Germany from a cross between Cascade and the Hüll male breeding line 2004/026/007 (94/045/001 × wild PM resistant male). One of the four new Hüll “Special Flavor Hops” registered to the European Community Plant Variety Office in 2012.[19][20]
Merkur
A product of the Hop Research Center Hüll in the Hallertau region of Germany. Sometimes called Hallertauer Merkur, this variety was bred from a cross between Hallertaur Magnum and variety 81/8/13. Mainly a bittering hop, but can provide an earthy, citrusy aroma.[21]
Opal
A product of the Hop Research Center Hüll that exhibits excellent aroma characteristics combined with a respectable alpha acid level. Exhibits a sweet spice, slightly peppery aroma and flavor combined with a light, clean citrus fruit aroma.[22]
Perle
German dual-purpose hop. Often used in combination with other hops. Spicy and slightly floral/fruity. Substitutes: Hallertau, Mount Hood, Liberty.
Polaris
Aroma hop variety with high bittering potential and fruity/spicy, fresh aroma reminiscent of mint and menthol. High alpha acid content of 18–23%, beta acids 5–6.5%, cohumulone 22–29%, humulene 20–35%, polyphenols 2.6–2.7%. Very high total oil content of up to 5 ml per 100 g of hops. High content of the esters isobutyl isobutyrate, 2-methylbutyl-isobutyrate, methyl heptanoate, methyl octanoate, methyl 4-decenoate, 4,8-methyldecadienoate, and geranyl acetate, as well as monoterpene-(E)-beta-ocimene. Polaris was bred at the Hop Research Center Hüll in Germany already in 1999 but was released in 2012, when it was registered to the European Community Plant Variety Office as one of four Hüll “Special Flavor Hops”. It is derived from Hüll breeding lines, a Japanese breeding line, and the American Nugget hop variety, and was bred with the stated aim to increase alpha acid content.[23][19][20]
Saphir
A new breed of hop that is starting to replace the Hallertauer Mittelfrüh variety, which has become more and more susceptible to disease and pests. Shares many of the Hallertauer Mittelfrüh characteristics and is very well suited as an aroma hop.
Select
German disease-resistant Hallertauer and Spalt pale lager variety developed in the early 1990s.
Smaragd
Mid-alpha hop with fruity, floral characteristics.[24]
Tradition
Bred in 1991 from Hallertau Mittelfrüh by the Hop Research Center Hüll in Germany for resistance to disease. Grassy like Hallertau, but easier to grow.
Noble
Hallertau
Hallertauer Mittelfrüh. The original German lager hop; named after Hallertau or Holledau region in central Bavaria. Due to susceptibility to crop disease, it was largely replaced by Hersbrucker in the 1970s and 1980s. Substitutes: Mount Hood, Liberty.
Hersbrucker
Noble hop used in German pale lagers. Substitutes: Hallertau, Mount Hood, Liberty, Spalt.
Saaz
Named after the city of Saaz (now Žatec) in the Czech Republic. Noble hop used extensively to flavor pale Czech lagers such as Pilsner Urquell. Cinnamon-spicy, earthy. Substitutes: Tettnanger, Ultra, Crystal.
Tettnanger
Noble German dual use hop used in European pale lagers and wheat beers, sometimes with Hallertau. Comes from Tettnang, a small town in southern Baden-Württemberg in Germany. The region produces significant quantities of hops, and ships them to breweries throughout the world. Substitutes: Saaz, Crystal.
Spalt
Traditional German noble hop from the Spalter region south of Nuremberg. Woody. Substitutes: Hallertau varieties.
Australian
Ella
Formerly Stella.[25][26] Name changed July 2012 due to legal pressure from Stella Artois[citation needed]. Australian high alpha variety. When used in modest amounts, it is reminiscent of noble European varieties, contributing floral notes. Larger quantities are more fruity, with a hint of anise. Alpha acids 13–16%. Typical total oils (ml per 100g) 2.4–3.4. Breeding code 01-220-060.[25]
Feux-Coeur Francais
Feux-Coeur hops in a beer glass
A rare Australian hop variety that has its genetic roots in the Burgundy region of France. It has been specially adapted to grow in the cool climate of Victoria (Australia). It was first harvested in 2010 and is ideal for use in a Randall device as invented by Dogfish Head Brewery. The alpha values on this young variety come in between 12 and 16. The name is a double entendre when pronounced quickly.
Galaxy
Australian high alpha dual purpose triploid cultivar with a marked and unique hop aroma, described as a combination of citrus and passionfruit. The initial aromas and flavors are quite intense, but these moderate as the beer matures. Bred in 1994 by Hop Products Australia by crossing a female tetraploid (J78) with a male derived from Perle.[27] Alpha acids 11 – 16%. Typical total oils (ml per 100g) 3.0 – 5.0, which is the highest known. Breeding code 94-203-008.
Pride of Ringwood
Used by Australian brewer Carlton and United Breweries to bitter all of its beers. The hop was created in 1953 at CUB’s research facility in the Melbourne suburb of Ringwood, using open pollination of Pride of Kent females. Little historical information has been released by CUB on their web site. It is unique in being the only hop developed by one brewery, and used predominantly by that brewery. CUB’s flagship beer VB changed from a red ale to a lager in the mid 1950s, and PoR is likely to have been the hop used for production. The hop has a strong aroma, and an earthy-citrus flavor, for late boil additions. Initial additions yield a clean bitterness. Green hopping is reported to produce good results. The hop does not have a long shelf life. However, the variety is highly resistant to diseases, and it has little inter-annual variation. Commercial harvests are now mostly Super Pride. Substitutes: Pacific Gem, Cluster, Northern Brewer.
Summer
Low alpha Australian aroma variety. Provides distinctive light apricot and melon fruit notes. Breeding code 97-235-026.[28]
Super Pride
A high alpha version of Pride of Ringwood, bred in 1987 by Hop Products Australia at their Rostrevor Breeding Garden Victoria. This cultivar was bred by crossing a female tetraploid Pride of Ringwood with a male YK¬81¬18.[29]
Topaz
High alpha Australian variety. Topaz is a triploid high alpha acid type cultivar bred by Hop Products Australia at their Rostrevor Breeding Garden Victoria. This variety was bred in 1985 by crossing a female Tetraploid J78 with a male 29/70/54. Provides earthy notes comparable to old English varieties. Breeding Code TC-85-70.
Vic Secret
First commercial crop released in 2013, by Hop Products Australia.[30] When used as a late kettle addition, the flavour is earthy with little fruit. Post boil addition yields pine and fruit flavours. Alpha acids 14–17%. Typical total oils (ml per 100g) 2.2–2.8. Breeding code 00-207-013.
New Zealand
Green Bullet
Released from the New Zealand DSIR (now HortResearch) in 1972, this triploid Alpha Variety was bred by open cross-pollination of the New Zealand “Smoothcone” variety. Known as a common New Zealand bittering hop, it also can contribute Styrian-like spiciness to late kettle additions.[31]
Hallertau Aroma/Wakatu
Released commercially from Hort’s Riwaka Research Centre in 1988. Developed as an Aroma variety by New Zealand’s HortResearch Hop Breeding Programme. This triploid was bred from parentage of two-third Hallertau Mittlefrüh open pollinated by one third New Zealand-derived male. Aroma is floral with hints of lime zest.[32]
Kohatu
A new mid-alpha variety with aromas of pine needles and tropical fruit.
Motueka
New variety NZ Hop, this hop was bred by crossing a New Zealand breeding selection (2/3) with Saazer parentage (1/3). Primarily used for flavour and aroma, its profile is citrus with lifted lemon and lime followed by a background of tropical fruit. Formerly known as B (Belgian) Saaz.[33]
Nelson Sauvin
A new variety developed in Nelson, New Zealand. Named with more than a nod towards the Sauvignon blanc grape. Intensely fruity flavour and aroma with a strong suggestion of passionfruit. Effective for bittering, flavour and aroma. Good when used either solely or in combination with complementary fruity hops such as Cascade in American pale ales.
New Zealand Cascade
This hops origins stem from an early US breeding program circa 1956 and was the first commercially bred hop to emerge from the USDA-ARS program when released in 1972. It was bred from crossing an English Fuggle with a male selection believed to have been a crossing of Fuggle with the Russian variety Serebrianka.
Pacifica
Released 1994 by New Zealand Hort Research Centre. Previously known as the Pacific Hallertau, this New Zealand hop has a soft, yet solid bittering quality. Its aroma is described as orange marmalade, citrus and some floral qualities.
Pacific Gem
A triploid Alpha type bred from the New Zealand variety “Smoothcone” crossed with Californian Late Cluster x Fuggle. Developed through the hop breeding programme of the New Zealand Horticultural Research Centre known now as HortResearch and released in 1987. Typically used as a bittering addition, but is known for producing oaken flavours with a distinct blackberry aroma when used as a late addition.[34]
Pacific Jade
High alpha bittering hop from New Zealand with a soft bitterness. Aroma is described as fresh citrus and black pepper.
Rakau
A dual purpose variety typically with alpha acid above 10% and cohumulone less than 25% of alpha acids. Can be used for multiple additions with late hop character delivering tropical fruit aromas of passionfruit and peach. Quite high levels of oil with an H/C ratio typical of classical aroma varieties.
Riwaka
Released by HortResearch Riwaka Hop Research Centre in 1997. A triploid aroma type bred during the development of New Zealand hops “hops with a difference” program. Developed through crossing “Old Line” Saazer with specially developed New Zealand breeding selections. Known for a strong citrus character and high oil content.
Southern Cross
Mellow bittering hop with high alpha of 11.0–14.0%. The aroma is characterised by a heady mix of lemon peel and pine needles layered beneath a clean spiciness. Mainstay of quality NZ lagers.
Sticklebract
A triploid variety developed at the DSIR Research Station from an open pollinated First Choice; a high alpha variety released in 1972.[35] Aroma is pine and citrus, good for American-style IPAs and pale ales.
Super Alpha
This triploid variety was bred from the New Zealand Smoothcone variety cross open pollinated at the New Zealand Horticultural Research Centre (now known as HortResearch) and released in 1976. Most commonly a bittering hop, but contributes grassy notes if used as a late addition.[36]
Wai-iti
New low-alpha variety with a strong citrus character of mandarin, lemon and lime zest. Alpha acids 3%. Total oils by dry weight 1.2ml per 100g.
Waimea
Released in 2012 from the New Zealand Plant and Food Research hop breeding program in Riwaka. Selected initially for alpha production Waimea is a granddaughter of Pacific Jade and commercialised on dual purpose capability.[37] Typical alpha acids 16%. Oils by dry weight 2ml per 100g.
European
Aalst
A Belgian variety mentioned for its use in Lambic beer in the early 19th century.[38]
Aramis
French hop used for bittering and aroma. It is a cross between Strisselspalt and Whitbread Golding Variety.[39]
Bor
A hybrid of Saaz and Northern Brewer. Gives a Saaz-like spicy aroma.[40]
Coigneau
Belgian hop cultivated in the Aalst-Asse area near Brussels in the nineteenth and first half of the twentieth century. Because of the low bitterness the Coigneau was originally a favorite hop used for Lambic beer.
Junga
A new variety from IUNG Pulawy, made from variety Northern Brewer and Marynka. Primarily a bittering hop.[41]
Lublin
Polish grown Saaz, used in Polish lagers. Slightly woody and spicy. Substitutes: Czech Saaz.
Marynka
Primarily a bittering hop, gives earthy, licorice qualities when used for aroma.
Poperinge
A Belgian variety mentioned for its use in Lambic beer in the early 19th century.[38]
Premiant
A high-alpha Saaz variant. Gives similar spicy aroma qualities.[42]
Sladek
A hybrid of Northern Brewer, Osvald’s close No. 126 and Czech male components. Similar to Czech Saaz.[43]
Strisselspalt
French aroma hop from Alsace, used mostly in pale lagers. Has a floral and lemony aroma/flavor. Similar to Hersbrucker. Substitutes: Hallertau, Mount Hood, Liberty, Hersbrucker, Southern Cross.
Styrian Atlas
A diploid hybrid between Brewers Gold and 3/3 Slovenian wild hop. Similar to other “Super Styrian” hops.
Styrian Aurora
Also known as Super Styrian, a diploid hybrid between Northern Brewer and a TG seedling of unknown origin. Similar in aroma to Styrian Golding.[44]
Styrian Bobek
A delicate, spicy aroma hop, similar to Styrian Golding.[45]
Styrian Celeia
A triploid hybrid between autotetraploid Styrian Golding and 105/58 hybrid between Aurora (Super Styrian) and a Slovenian wild hop. Gives a pleasant hoppy aroma similar to other “Super Styrian” varieties.[46]
Styrian Golding
Slovenian variant of Fuggle, but similar to East Kent Goldings. Used in English ales and Belgian strong ales amongst others. From Slovenia. Substitutes: East Kent Goldings.
Sybilla
A new variety from IUNG Pulawy which is registered as a bittering hop, but has typical aroma characteristic. A mix of Lublin and Slovenian Styrian Golding.[41]
Tardif de Bourgogne
French hop, used as an aromatic in continental lagers.
Tomyski
A Polish variety used as an aroma hop. This was used in the brewing of Grodziskie.
Japan
Sorachi Ace
Japanese dual purpose hop seeing increased usage in 2008 after hop shortages in the Western world. Imparts an unusual lemon/”bubblegum” and dill pickle flavour.
Ornamental
Golden Hop
A pale, ornamental variety, Humulus lupulus ‘Aurea’, is cultivated for garden use. It is also known as Golden Hop, and holds the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit (AGM).[47]
Table
| Name | Country | Alpha acid % |
|---|---|---|
| Admiral | England | 13.5 – 16 |
| Ahtanum | U.S. | 5.7 – 6.3 |
| Amarillo | U.S. | 8 – 11 |
| Apollo | U.S. | 20 – 21 |
| Bramling Cross | England | 5 – 7 |
| Brewer’s Gold | England | 7.1-11.3 |
| Bullion | England | 6.5-9 |
| Cascade | U.S. | 4.5-6 |
| Centennial | U.S. | 9.5-11.5 |
| Challenger | England | 6.5-8.5 |
| Chinook | U.S. | 12-14 |
| Citra® | U.S. | 11-13 |
| Cluster | U.S. | 5.5-8.5 |
| Columbus | U.S. | 14-18 |
| Crystal | U.S. | 3.5-5.5 |
| Eroica | U.S. | 9-12 |
| First Gold | England | 6.5-8.5 |
| Feux-Coeur Francais | Australia | 3.1-5.5 |
| Fuggle | England | 4-5.5 |
| Galaxy | Australia | 14.9 |
| Galena | U.S. | 12-14 |
| Glacier | U.S. | 5.5 |
| Goldings | England | 4-5.5 |
| Green Bullet | New Zealand | 11-14 |
| Greenburg | U.S. | 5.2 |
| Hallertau / Hallertauer Mittelfrüh | Germany | 3.5-5.5 |
| Herald | England | 11-13 |
| Herkules | Germany | 12-17 |
| Hersbrucker | Germany | 3-5.5 |
| Horizon | U.S. | 11-13 |
| Liberty | U.S. | 3-5 |
| Lublin | Poland | 3-5 |
| Magnum | Germany | 11-16 |
| Merkur | Germany | 3.5-7 |
| Millennium | U.S. | 15.5 |
| Motueka | New Zealand | 6.5-7.5 |
| Mosaic | U.S. | 11.5-13.5 |
| Mount Hood | U.S. | 5-8 |
| Mount Rainier | U.S. | 6 |
| Nelson Sauvin | New Zealand | 12-14 |
| Newport | U.S. | 10-17 |
| Northdown | England | 7.5-9.5 |
| Northern Brewer | England | 8-10[16] |
| Nugget | U.S. | 12-14 |
| Opal | Germany | 3.5-5.5 |
| Pacifica | New Zealand | 5-6 |
| Pacific Gem | New Zealand | 14-16 |
| Pacific Jade | New Zealand | 12-14 |
| Palisade | U.S. | 6-10 |
| Perle | Germany | 6-10 |
| Phoenix | England | 9-13 |
| Pilgrim | England | 9-13 |
| Pilot | England | 9-12 |
| Pioneer | England | 8-10 |
| Polnischer Lublin | Poland | 3-4.5 |
| Pride of Ringwood | Australia | 7-10 |
| Progress | England | 5-7 |
| Riwaka | New Zealand | 4.5-6.5 |
| Saaz | Czech Republic | 3-4.5 |
| Saaz Late | Czech Republic | 3.5-6 |
| Bor | Czech Republic | 6-9 |
| Premiant | Czech Republic | 7-10 |
| Rubin | Czech Republic | 9-12 |
| Agnus | Czech Republic | 12 – 14 |
| Vital | Czech Republic | 12-16 |
| Sladek | Czech Republic | 4.5-8 |
| Kazbek | Czech Republic | 5-8 |
| Bohemie | Czech Republic | 5-8 |
| Harmonie | Czech Republic | 5-8 |
| San Juan Ruby Red | U.S. | 7.01 |
| Santiam | U.S. | 5-7 |
| Saphir | Germany | 2-4.5 |
| Satus | U.S. | 12.5-14 |
| Select | Germany | 4-6 |
| Simcoe | U.S. | 12-14 |
| Smaragd | Germany | 3.5-5.5 |
| Sorachi Ace | Japan | 10-16 |
| Southern Cross | New Zealand | 11-14 |
| Spalt | Germany | 4-5 |
| Sterling | U.S. | 6-9 |
| Strisselspalt | France | 3-5 |
| Styrian Aurora | Slovenia | 7-9.5 |
| Styrian Bobek | Slovenia | 3.5-7 |
| Styrian Goldings | Slovenia | 4.5-6 |
| Styrian Celeia | Slovenia | 3-6 |
| Summit | U.S. | 17-19 |
| Tardif de Bourgogne | France | 3.1-5.5 |
| Target | England | 9.5-12.5 |
| Taurus | Germany | 12-17 |
| Tettnang | Germany | 3.5-5.5 |
| Tomahawk | U.S. | 14-18 |
| Tomyski | Poland | 2.5-4 |
| Tradition | Germany | 5-7 |
| Ultra | U.S. | 4.5-5 |
| Vanguard | U.S. | 5.5-6 |
| Waimea | New Zealand | 16-19 |
| Warrior | U.S. | 15-17 |
| Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) | England | 5-8 |
| Willamette | U.S. | 4-6 |
| Zeus | U.S. | 15 |