All About the Northern Brewer Hops in Beer: Unique Flavour, Versatile Substitutes & Iconic Styles
We’re bringing you an in-depth look into the versatile hop variety making waves in the brewing world – the Northern Brewer Hops. In particular, we’re delving into its role in beer brewing, its flavour profiles, suitable substitutes, and popular beer styles it is used in. Grown predominately in Europe and America, Northern Brewer Hops have recently carved out a place in Australian breweries, becoming a favourite amongst local brewers for their notable characteristics.
The Back Story of Northern Brewer Hops
The Northern Brewer Hops story begins way back in 1934 in England. Created by the hop breeding program at Wye College in Kent, its parentages are a cross between Canterbury Golding and a male seedling of Brewer’s Gold. Its development was a true innovation in hop breeding as it was one of the first varieties to feature notable resistance against a range of diseases, a trait that helped it gain popularity among brewers.
Historically, it saw a nearly five-decade reign as the primary hop in the brewing of California Common until the late 1970s, when new hop varieties began to edge it out. However, its popularity never truly waned and it ventured overseas to the United States, Europe and more recently, Australia, where it has found favour amongst local craft breweries.
The Flavour and Characteristics of Northern Brewer Hops
The Northern Brewer hops are known for their unique and broad flavour profile. In terms of aroma, these hops provide a heady mix of evergreen, mint and wood, complemented by a hint of grass.
Its flavour profile is robust, providing a well-rounded bittering taste with undertones of woodsy, rustic and minty flavours. Traditionally, its dual-purpose nature, courtesy of an alpha acid content of 8-10%, and a relatively low beta acid content of 3-5%, makes it suitable for both bittering and aroma enhancements in various beers, as well as dry additions.
Infusing Northern Brewer Hops into Beer Styles
When it comes to beers, Northern Brewer hops is truly versatile, pairing well with a plethora of styles. Most commonly, you’ll find it in English Ales, Porters, and particularly the California Common, a beer type it defined.
In Australia, brewers have embraced these unique hops. A prime example includes the steam ale from Mountain Goat Brewery, which prominently features Northern Brewer Hops, delivering a unique rustic flavour that sets it apart from its counterparts.
Substituting Northern Brewer Hops
Noted for its flexibility and unique flavour profile, finding a perfect substitute for Northern Brewer hops might pose a challenge. However, if necessary, substitutes such as Chinook, Perle, or Hallertau could serve as suitable alternatives offering similar bittering properties and flavours.
Wrapping It Up
With its distinct flavours, disease resistance and dual-purpose ability, Northern Brewer Hops are a powerful addition to any brewer’s toolkit. This hop variety has long maintained a position of importance in the brewing world and is only growing in popularity in Australia.
We encourage you to raise your glass of beer high and appreciate the versatility of this hop variety. Better yet, why not seek out your local Aussie breweries that use Northern Brewer Hops in their beer? Or even, take a shot at brewing your own beer infused with this resilient, unique hop! Cheers!
