The hop is a relative of the cannabis plant and is a perennial bine that can
grow up to twenty feet or more. They are cultivated on guide wires in the hop
yard. Only the dried female flowers, which look like an open leaved brussel
sprout, are used in brewing
Below is listed a quick guide to the varieties of hops you
can use with Beer Brewing.
|
Hop Name |
Hop Description |
Vacuum (*) |
Loose (*) |
|
Fuggles |
This is used in bitters and pale ales and for flavouring the darker british
beers. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
W,g,v,(whitebread goldings) |
Bred by the Whitbread Brewery, the variety has the charcteristics of both
fuggles and golding. W.G.R. is usually used in combination with other types of
hops. |
Yes |
No |
|
Bramling Cross |
This variety is grown in kent and sussex. Its major downfall in relation to
its propergation is its very low yield. However, it has a very distinctive
aroma which is best suited to the darker stronger types of beers. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Progress |
This hop variety combines fine aromas with good alpha acid content and is
used together with goldings in the production of good class bitters and pale
ales. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Styrian Goldings
|
Although these hops are essentially goldings, they have a good perfumed aroma
and, as a result of this, are used in continental lagers and the less malty
english ales. These hops are ideal for late or dry hopping. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Saaz |
This hop variety is extensively used in the production of pilsner type beers.
They have a delicate bitterness and aroma that are suited to many styles of
continental beers. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Challenger |
These are a very versatile variety. It gives a fine bitterness and aroma,
resulting in many brewers using these hops alone, in the production of their
beers. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Horthdown |
These hops can be used to good effect in the production of the darker styles
of beers. They are an ideal companion to the aroma hops such as fuggles or
progress. Northdown hops are particulary suited to Irish style stouts. |
Yes |
No |
|
Target |
These hops are the most widely grown variety in Britain. They are very
resistant to disease and are a heavy cropper. They are used in the production
of good quality bitters and pale ales. |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Cascade |
These hops have a very high level of some of the essential oils. In addition,
they have an aroma all of there own although used by American Microbrewers. It
is now being introduced into some English beers. |
Yes |
No |