Hop varieties

Each type of hop carries its own distinct aroma profile, characterized by a special combination of numerous aromatic oils. The location where the hops are cultivated plays a role in this profile, and it can fluctuate slightly from one year to the next.

Understanding the intricate aroma profiles across different hop varieties is a significant challenge for brewers. This is made even more difficult by the fact that the language used to describe hops is basic and not fully developed.

The following is a list of most of the varieties of hops available in the world market. No single supplier will carry them all. Some boutique varieties can be scarce, so you may have to be flexible. Still, there are always lots of choices for making great beers, and by the time the ink is dry on this book there will be new ones to look for.

These represent the typical ranges of the hop throughout various years. The specific qualities of the hops can vary slightly depending on the year’s crop and the grower, so these numerical ranges are grounded in historical data.

Alpha Acids: Alpha acids are the main source of bitterness in beer. Longer boil times will result in the isomerization of more alpha acids, leading to increased bitterness.

Beta Acids: Beta acids are the component of hop resins that contribute volatile aromatics and flavor properties. Beta acids do not contribute bitterness.

Co-Humulone as % of Alpha: Low-cohumulone hops arguably impart a smoother bitterness; high-cohumulone hops add a sharper bitterness to the final beer.

Total Oils (mL/100g): Total oils in hops refer to the aromatic compounds present in the hop cones that contribute to the flavor and aroma of bee, crucial for creating the distinct characteristics of different beer styles.

The 12 aroma categories and associated aromas allow you to define your unique aroma profile.

Floral: elderflower, chamomile blossom, lily of the valley, jasmine, apple blossom, rose, geranium, carnation, lily, lilac, lavender, osmanthus

Citrus: grapefruit, orange, lime, lemon, bergamot, lemon grass, ginger, tangerine, pomelo

Sweet Fruits: banana, watermelon, honeydew melon, peach, apricot, passion fruit, lychee, dried fruit, plum, pineapple, cherry, kiwi, mango, guava

Green Fruit: pear, apple, quince, gooseberry, white wine grapes

Berries & Currant: cassis, blueberry, raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, red currant, black currant, wild strawberry, cranberry, mulberry

Cream Caramel: butter, chocolate, yogurt, honey, cream, caramel, toffee, coffee, tonka bean, vanilla, coconut

Woody: tobacco, cognac, barrique, leather, woodruff, incense, myrrh, resin, cedar, pine, earthy

Menthol: mint, lemon balm, sage, camphor, menthol, wine yeast, eucalyptus

Herbal: marjoram, tarragon, dill, parsley, basil, fennel, cilantro, rosemary, thyme, green tea, black tea, mate tea, oregano

Spicy: lovage, pepper, chili, curry, juniper, aniseed, licorice, fennel seeds, clove, cinnamon, gingerbread, coriander seeds, nutmeg

Grassy-hay: fresh cut grass, hay, tomato leaves, green pepper, nettle, cucumber, bamboo leaves

Vegetal: celery, leek, onion, artichoke, garlic, wild garlic, radish

Admiral

Admiral Hop Cone

Bittering Hop

CITRUS, HERBAL, SPICY, STONE FRUIT, WOODY

United Kingdom

Admiral is a commendable mid-season hop variety, stemming from the Challenger and Northdown hops. The process to develop Admiral began at The College of St. Gregory and St. Martin at Wye, widely referred to as Wye College, in England in 1984. The successful breeding was directed by the renowned British hop scientist Dr. Peter Darby. Commercially launched in the brewing community in 1996, it was introduced as a possible high-alpha alternative or complementary addition to Target hops. With a higher acid content than its parent varieties, Admiral offers a forceful yet smooth bittering effect and is distinguished by an orange-citrus and herbal undertone. You can experience its unique taste paired with East Kent Golding in Three Floyds BlackHeart English IPA.

Characteristics: Aggressive but smooth bittering with an orange-citrus and herbal resonance.

Style Guide: Extra Special Bitter, American India Pale Ale, Belgian India Pale Ale, Imperial India Pale Ale, India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Bitter.

Alpha-Acid %11.0 – 15.0%
Beta-Acid %5.0 – 6.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.42 – 44%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.0 – 1.7

African Queen

African Queen Hop Cone

Dual Purpose

CITRUS, STONE FRUIT, BERRY, HERBAL

South Africa

African Queen is perhaps one of South Africa’s most distinctive hop varieties. Unlike the majority of high-alpha types, this variety boasts a notably rich and multifaceted aroma. It was engineered by hop breeders Gerrie Britz and Beverley-Anne Joseph at SAB Hop Farms in George, South Africa, resulting from a crossbreed between two experimental varieties: 94US2/118 and 91J7/25. The development of African Queen began in 1998 and culminated with its commercial introduction in 2014. Its aroma profile is dominated by fruity tones, with powerful notes of berries, black currant, and stone fruit. Complementing these are subtle hints of chilies, lemongrass, and even bubble gum, making it a truly unique hop in the brewing landscape

Characteristics: Fruit forward with blackcurrant and passion fruit.

Style Guide: Extra Special Bitter, American India Pale Ale, Belgian India Pale Ale, Imperial India Pale Ale, India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Bitter.

Alpha-Acid %13 – 15%
Beta-Acid %3.9 – 5.6%
Co-Humulone % rel.22 – 27%
Total Oils (ml/100g)0.5 – 1.3 

Agnus

Agnus Hop Cone

Bittering Hop

CITRUS, HERBAL, SPICY, STONE FRUIT, WOODY

Czech Republic

Agnus is recognized as the Czech Republic’s first high-alpha bittering hop. The name is derived from the surname of Czech hop breeder Frantisek Beranek, which translates to “Agnum” in Latin, or “Lamb” in English. Officially registered in 2000 and released in 2001, Agnus is celebrated for its strong spicy and herbal notes, drawing comparisons to the Nugget and Magnum varieties. Its rich lineage encompasses a variety of esteemed hops, including Bor, Fuggle, Saaz, Sladek, and Northern Brewer. While it’s primarily used for its bittering qualities, Agnus’s robust flavor and abundant oil content may also make it suitable for flavor enhancements and even dry hopping.

Characteristics: Strong spicy and herbal notes.

Style Guide: Czech Pilsner, German Lager, Pale Ale.

Alpha-Acid %9 – 14%
Beta-Acid %4 – 6.5%
Co-Humulone % rel.30 – 40%
Total Oils (ml/100g)2.0-3.0 

Ahtanum®

Ahtanum Hop Cone

Aroma Hop

CEDAR, CITRUS, FLORAL, GRASSY, HERBAL

United States

Yakima Valley, known for its unique hop varieties, has bred Ahtanum™, a distinctive hop that adds both character and complexity to various beers. Its flavor profile is a rich blend of sweet and peppery notes, complemented by a piney-citrus aspect. This gives the hop a warmly aromatic and moderately bittering quality that sets it apart in the brewing industry. Many have likened Ahtanum™ to the Cascade hop variety. But, there are notable differences between the two. Instead, Ahtanum™ can be more closely compared to the Willamette hop variety, known for its lemon and grapefruit notes. The citrus character of Ahtanum™ is so distinct that it’s often chosen as the singular hop in specific beer recipes. This unique attribute has led to its use in well-known brews such as Dogfish Head’s Blood Orange Hefeweizen and Stone Brewing’s Pale Ale.

Characteristics: Distinct citrus character with notes of grapefruit.

Style Guide: India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Hefeweizen, American Ale, Lager, Californian Common, Bitter.

Alpha-Acid %4 – 6.3%
Beta-Acid %5 – 6.5%
Co-Humulone % rel.30 – 35%
Total Oils (ml/100g)0.8 – 1.2 

Akoya

Akoya Hop Cone

Dual Purpose

TEA, SPICY, GREEN FRUIT, PEPPER

Germany

Akoya, a traditional aroma hop, was created by crossing it with the Zenith English variety and a male Hopsteiner type in the Hopsteiner breeding line. The scent of raw Akoya hops has an herbal, citrus, and tea-like essence, complemented by a slight fruitiness and notes of mint. This new variety’s consistency in alpha values, ranging from 10-11%, and its oil content of about 1.5 – 2.0 ml per 100 grams, is due in part to its strong resistance to diseases like late blight and Verticillium, as well as resilience to drought stress. Akoya is seen as the successor to the Perle hop, as it possesses similar aromatic traits along with enhanced agronomic performance.

Characteristics: Typically used in only late boil additions, including dry hopping.

Style Guide: Alt, Pilsner, Maisbier (Corn beer), Lager, Helles, Kölsch, Golden Ale, Bitter, English IPA.

Alpha-Acid %8.0 – 10.0%
Beta-Acid %4 – 5%
Co-Humulone % rel.27 – 30%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.5 – 2.0

Altus

Altus Hop Cone

Dual Purpose

SPICY, RESINOUS, TANGERINE

United States

Altus™, formerly X07270, is a distinctive hop variety known for its robust character. This hop produces an intense blend of spicy, dank, and resinous aromas, softened by nuances of tangerine and herbal, grassy notes. Originating from a cross between Apollo and Wye Target through Hopsteiner’s breeding program, Altus™ inherits a powerful punch from its predecessors. What sets Altus™ apart is its remarkable high alpha and oil content, establishing it as an outstanding dual-purpose hop that has both flavor-forward bittering qualities. Its adaptability extends to various beer styles, ranging from a Mexican Lager to the strong flavor of a triple IPA, inspiring brewers to delve into the myriad creative possibilities offered by this multifaceted variety. Named for the Latin adjective Altum, translating to “high” or “elevated,” 

Characteristics: Huge flavors of spicy tangerine and an alpha acid level as high as 15%.

Style Guide: India Pale Ale, New England IPA, Pale Ale, Wheat Beer, Golden Ale.

Alpha-Acid %15 – 19%
Beta-Acid %4 – 5.2%
Co-Humulone % rel.26 – 29%
Total Oils (ml/100g)3 – 4.4 

Amarillo® VGXP01 c.v.

Amarillo Hop Cone

Aroma Hop

CITRUS, HERBAL, SPICY, STONE FRUIT, WOODY

United States

Amarillo™ VGXP01, exclusively overseen by Virgil Gamache Farms in Toppenish, WA, was initially discovered growing wild in 1998. This hop variety, known for its exceptionally high myrcene content, imparts a delightful orange citrus flavor and is utilized by brewers all around the globe. Amarillo® contains a commendable alpha acid content, allowing it to serve as both a flavoring and bittering hop. However, due to its distinct and highly coveted aromas and flavors along with its strong demand, it’s typically employed in late-kettle or whirlpool stages and as a dry hop. Amarillo has become a staple in American pale ale, IPA, and Imperial IPA recipes, and it’s one of the craft brewers’ most beloved hops. It’s frequently coupled with Citra, Simcoe, and Mosaic in various juicy IPAs and pale ales.

Characteristics: High alpha acids along with extremely high levels of myrcene for citrus and grapefruit flavors.

Style Guide: American Pale Ale, India Pale Ale, American Wheat, Bitter, Wheat Beer, Red Ale, ESB.

Alpha-Acid %8.0 – 11.0%
Beta-Acid %6.0 – 7.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.21 – 24%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.5 – 1.9

Apollo™

Apollo Hop Cone

Bittering Hop

CITRUS, HERBAL, SPICY, STONE FRUIT, WOODY

Germany

The super-alpha hop known as Apollo was first created in 2000 by Hopsteiner and later introduced to the public in 2006. This variety is a descendant of Zeus and a male with (98001 x USDA 19058m) lineage. Apollo is often considered expensive, but the quantities utilized are typically smaller due to its extremely high concentration of alpha-acids. One of Apollo’s notable characteristics is its abundant alpha acids, which impart a sharp and clean bittering profile. Other positive attributes include its excellent storage stability and resistance to disease. When used in brewing, it is commonly paired with aroma hops to create balance. However, when used as a late addition or dry hop, it can exhibit some grapefruit nuances. 

Characteristics: Sharp, clean bittering, grapefruit notes.

Style Guide: India Pale Ale, Imperial India Pale Ale, Experimental Beers.

Alpha-Acid %15.0 – 19.0%
Beta-Acid %5.5 – 8.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.24 – 28%
Total Oils (ml/100g)0.14 – 0.24

Aramis

Aroma Hop

SPICY, CITRUS, HERBAL

France

Aramis hops, originating from the Comptoir Agricole breeding program, were first developed in 2002. Born in the Alsace region of France, this variety is a hybrid of the traditional Strisselspalt and Whitbread Golding hops. The creation of Aramis marked the first new variety from this particular research initiative, specifically engineered to combine the outstanding aroma of Strisselspalt with a more robust and plentiful bittering essence. Known for their sweet and spicy attributes, Aramis hops present a taste palette that features hints of caramel, mint, lemongrass, and rose. These hops also emit delightful floral scents such as jasmine, herbal elements, and hay, coupled with sweet fruit undertones of strawberries and raspberries, and an ensemble of spicy notes, including rose and lemon balm. Commercially, Aramis hops have been utilized in brews like New Belgium Hop Kitchen’s French Aramis, a dry and invigorating India Pale Ale.

Characteristics: Sweet with notes of spice, citrus and herbs.

Style Guide: Pilsner, Lager, Wheat, Saison, India Pale Ale, Belgian Ales, Pale Ale, Porter

Alpha-Acid %7.9 – 8.3%%
Beta-Acid %3.5 – 5.5%
Co-Humulone % rel.21 – 28%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.2 – 1.6

Ariana™

Ariana Hop Cone

Dual Purpose

CITRUS, SWEET FRUIT, BERRY & CURRENT, FLORAL

Germany

Ariana beer hops, a fresh entrant in the hop universe, were crafted in Germany by the Hop Research Center Hüll. Launched in 2016 after almost ten years of meticulous breeding and assessment, this thrilling variety has marked its presence in the brewing community with a set of unparalleled traits. Bred from a cross between Herkules and a wild male hop, the Ariana variety brings a novel flavor profile that’s gaining traction among homebrewing enthusiasts and craft breweries. The flavor of Ariana hops is marked by a tantalizing mixture of fruit and flower hints, featuring pronounced tones of berries, citrus, and vanilla, along with subtle touches of blackcurrant and gooseberries, adding layers to its taste. With an alpha acid level ranging between 10% and 13%, the versatile Ariana hops are apt for both enhancing bitterness and contributing to the aroma.

Characteristics: Fruity, with intense berry character of black currant and gooseberry. 

Style Guide: Wheat, India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Saison

Alpha-Acid %9.0 – 13.00%
Beta-Acid %4.5 – 6.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.40 – 42%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.6 – 2.4

Aurora

Aurora Hop Cone

Dual Purpose

SWEET FRUIT, BERRY & CURRENT, CITRUS

Slovenia

Aurora hops, also recognized as Super Styrian, originate from Slovenia and serve as a dual-purpose hop variety. This particular variety was developed in the early 1970s through the crossbreeding of Northern Brewer and a wild Slovenian male hop at the Hop Research Institute in Zalec, Yugoslavia, which is now part of Slovenia. The Aurora hops have gained a reputation for their adaptability, becoming a favored option for both amateur homebrewers and seasoned professionals. This hop’s flavor profile stands out with its blend of floral and spicy elements, complemented by understated hints of citrus and pine. With an alpha acid content that typically ranges from 7% to 12%, Aurora hops are suitable for contributing both bitterness and fragrance during the brewing process. They are often found in various beer styles such as pale ales, IPAs, lagers, and Belgian ales, where they provide a balanced bitterness and a rich, earthy scent.

Characteristics: Dominated by sweet fruit and berry aromas.

Style Guide: American Pale Ale, Dark Lager.

Alpha-Acid %7 – 12%
Beta-Acid %2.7 – 5.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.22 – 26%
Total Oils (ml/100g)0.9-1.8

Amarillo® VGXP01 c.v.

Amarillo Hop Cone

Aroma Hop

CITRUS, HERBAL, SPICY, STONE FRUIT, WOODY

United States

Amarillo™ VGXP01, exclusively overseen by Virgil Gamache Farms in Toppenish, WA, was initially discovered growing wild in 1998. This hop variety, known for its exceptionally high myrcene content, imparts a delightful orange citrus flavor and is utilized by brewers all around the globe. Amarillo® contains a commendable alpha acid content, allowing it to serve as both a flavoring and bittering hop. However, due to its distinct and highly coveted aromas and flavors along with its strong demand, it’s typically employed in late-kettle or whirlpool stages and as a dry hop. Amarillo has become a staple in American pale ale, IPA, and Imperial IPA recipes, and it’s one of the craft brewers’ most beloved hops. It’s frequently coupled with Citra, Simcoe, and Mosaic in various juicy IPAs and pale ales.

Characteristics: High alpha acids along with extremely high levels of myrcene for citrus and grapefruit flavors.

Style Guide: American Pale Ale, India Pale Ale, American Wheat, Bitter, Wheat Beer, Red Ale, ESB.

Alpha-Acid %8.0 – 11.0%
Beta-Acid %6.0 – 7.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.21 – 24%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.5 – 1.9

Apollo™

Apollo Hop Cone

Bittering Hop

CITRUS, HERBAL, SPICY, STONE FRUIT, WOODY

Germany

The super-alpha hop known as Apollo was first created in 2000 by Hopsteiner and later introduced to the public in 2006. This variety is a descendant of Zeus and a male with (98001 x USDA 19058m) lineage. Apollo is often considered expensive, but the quantities utilized are typically smaller due to its extremely high concentration of alpha-acids. One of Apollo’s notable characteristics is its abundant alpha acids, which impart a sharp and clean bittering profile. Other positive attributes include its excellent storage stability and resistance to disease. When used in brewing, it is commonly paired with aroma hops to create balance. However, when used as a late addition or dry hop, it can exhibit some grapefruit nuances. 

Characteristics: Sharp, clean bittering, grapefruit notes.

Style Guide: India Pale Ale, Imperial India Pale Ale, Experimental Beers.

Alpha-Acid %15.0 – 19.0%
Beta-Acid %5.5 – 8.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.24 – 28%
Total Oils (ml/100g)0.14 – 0.24

Aramis

Aroma Hop

SPICY, CITRUS, HERBAL

France

Aramis hops, originating from the Comptoir Agricole breeding program, were first developed in 2002. Born in the Alsace region of France, this variety is a hybrid of the traditional Strisselspalt and Whitbread Golding hops. The creation of Aramis marked the first new variety from this particular research initiative, specifically engineered to combine the outstanding aroma of Strisselspalt with a more robust and plentiful bittering essence. Known for their sweet and spicy attributes, Aramis hops present a taste palette that features hints of caramel, mint, lemongrass, and rose. These hops also emit delightful floral scents such as jasmine, herbal elements, and hay, coupled with sweet fruit undertones of strawberries and raspberries, and an ensemble of spicy notes, including rose and lemon balm. Commercially, Aramis hops have been utilized in brews like New Belgium Hop Kitchen’s French Aramis, a dry and invigorating India Pale Ale.

Characteristics: Sweet with notes of spice, citrus and herbs.

Style Guide: Pilsner, Lager, Wheat, Saison, India Pale Ale, Belgian Ales, Pale Ale, Porter

Alpha-Acid %7.9 – 8.3%%
Beta-Acid %3.5 – 5.5%
Co-Humulone % rel.21 – 28%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.2 – 1.6

Ariana™

Ariana Hop Cone

Dual Purpose

CITRUS, SWEET FRUIT, BERRY & CURRENT, FLORAL

Germany

Ariana beer hops, a fresh entrant in the hop universe, were crafted in Germany by the Hop Research Center Hüll. Launched in 2016 after almost ten years of meticulous breeding and assessment, this thrilling variety has marked its presence in the brewing community with a set of unparalleled traits. Bred from a cross between Herkules and a wild male hop, the Ariana variety brings a novel flavor profile that’s gaining traction among homebrewing enthusiasts and craft breweries. The flavor of Ariana hops is marked by a tantalizing mixture of fruit and flower hints, featuring pronounced tones of berries, citrus, and vanilla, along with subtle touches of blackcurrant and gooseberries, adding layers to its taste. With an alpha acid level ranging between 10% and 13%, the versatile Ariana hops are apt for both enhancing bitterness and contributing to the aroma.

Characteristics: Fruity, with intense berry character of black currant and gooseberry. 

Style Guide: Wheat, India Pale Ale, Pale Ale, Saison

Alpha-Acid %9.0 – 13.00%
Beta-Acid %4.5 – 6.0%
Co-Humulone % rel.40 – 42%
Total Oils (ml/100g)1.6 – 2.4