New Zealand is known for producing some of the most distinctive and flavorful hops in the world. Thanks to the country’s unique climate and soil conditions, New Zealand hops offer a range of flavours and aromas that are unmatched by any other hop-growing region.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of New Zealand hops, their characteristics, and some of the popular varieties used in brewing.
History of New Zealand Hops
New Zealand has been growing hops since the late 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that they began to gain recognition for their unique flavour profile. That’s when a group of farmers in the Nelson region of New Zealand began experimenting with new hop varieties, which eventually led to the development of some of the most sought-after hops in the world.
Today, New Zealand hops are in high demand among craft brewers, thanks to their intense fruity and floral flavours, as well as their high alpha acid content.
Couple that with the fact that New Zealand growers are constantly striving to find new and interesting hop cultivars to push those flavour boundaries – it’s no wonder they’re the go-to hop of choice for craft brewers and commercial breweries alike.
Characteristics of New Zealand Hops
New Zealand hops are known for their complex flavours and aromas, which include notes of tropical fruit, citrus, and pine. They also tend to have a lower cohumulone content, which makes them less bitter than some other hop varieties.
The unique terrain of New Zealand plays a significant role in shaping the characteristics of these hops. The country’s cool, maritime climate and fertile soil create the perfect growing conditions for producing hops with a distinct flavour and aroma.
These flavour profiles are perfect for those new-style citrusy IPA’s and refreshing lagers.
Popular New Zealand Hop Varieties
Nelson Sauvin
This hop variety is known for its intense fruit flavours, including notes of gooseberry, passionfruit, and grapefruit.
NECTARON
Passionately crafted over 17 years, Nectaron displays high levels of tropical fruit characters of pineapple and passion fruit as well peach and grapefruit.
Motueka
This hop has a citrusy flavour and aroma, with notes of lime, lemon, and tropical fruit.
Riwaka
This hop variety is prized for its intense aroma, which includes notes of grapefruit, passionfruit, and pine.
SUPERDELIC
Superdelic is a brand new, exciting hop variety from New Zealand. It provides unique flavours of candy, citrus, and tropical fruit.
WAI-ITI
This hop variety has a unique flavour profile that includes notes of pine, citrus, and tropical fruit.
Why choose New Zealand Hops?
New Zealand hops have made a significant impact on the brewing world in recent years, thanks to their unique flavour and aroma characteristics. Whether you’re brewing a pale ale, IPA, or other hop-forward beer, adding New Zealand hops can help take your brew to the next level.
So, if you’re looking to experiment with new hop varieties or want to try something different, consider giving New Zealand hops a try. With their complex flavours and aromas, they are sure to add a new dimension to your brews.
