The Riwaka Hops In Beer – Unveiling a Unique Blend of Flavour, Substitutes & Styles
G’day hops enthusiasts! Today, we’re setting our sights one of the most sought after hop varieties in Australia – the dazzling Riwaka Hops. Exuding a characterful aroma, distinctive flavour profile, and offering an array of incredible beer styles, this hop resonates with Australia’s robust beer culture. Let’s dive into the unique charm and fascinating history of Riwaka Hops.
Down the Hop History Lane: The Story of Riwaka Hops
Native to New Zealand, Riwaka Hops were bred by the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research as a derivative of Saaz hops, one of the original noble hops. First developed in the late 1990s, the name ‘Riwaka’ was adopted from the Riwaka township situated near the onshore tip of the Southern Island of New Zealand.
The versatile Riwaka hop quickly made its mark in the New Zealand and Australian beer scenes with its distinctive, powerful aromatics and punchy alpha acid contents. Celebrated both for bittering and for aroma applications, the Riwaka possesses an all-around functionality that has only broadened its reach and popularity in the brewing industry.
Riwaka Hops In Beer – The Flavour & Characteristics
If we are talking about distinctive flavour profiles, the Riwaka Hops check all the boxes. Packed with intense flavours of grapefruit, kazhu fruit, passionfruit, and other tropical citruses, it offers an extraordinary burst of freshness. Its incredibly strong alpha acids range from 4% – 6%.
Equally impressive are its beta acids, with a range of about 4.5% to 5.5%. The Riwaka Hops are indeed dual-purpose in nature, suitable not only for bittering but also for the aroma and dry additions. Underneath the bold citrus notes, you also find subtle undertones of pine and herbal essences, making it an absolute delight for those seeking a sensory adventure.
Riwaka Hops: Styles and Signature Beers
The high alpha acids and enticing fruity profile make Riwaka Hops a fashionable addition to a variety of beer styles. From Pale Ales to IPAs, Riwaka Hops can play a significant role.
Some of the most notable Australian brews featuring Riwaka hops include the likes of BrewDog’s Indie Pale Ale, Two Birds Brewing’s Passion Victim, and Mountain Goat Brewery’s Fancy Pants Amber Ale. Each of these beers shines an interesting spotlight on the versatility and distinctive flavour of Riwaka Hops.
Riwaka Hops In Beer: Ideal Substitutes
If you’re unable to find Riwaka Hops, don’t fret! There are a few alternatives that can still give you a similar profile. The first substitute that comes to mind is the Motueka Hops, which also hail from New Zealand. Another worthy substitute is the Centennial hops, grown in the United States, known for their citrus and floral characters that mimic the Riwaka Hops quite well.
To conclude, The Riwaka Hops brings forth a unique charm to the brewing world. With its distinctive flavour profile, broad usability, and tangible presence in an array of beer styles, these hops are sure to spice up your brewing or drinking experience. We reckon it’s about time you experience the Riwaka swing in your beer.
Pop into your local brewery for a pits stop or give home brewing a shot with the Riwaka hops. Don’t miss out on the fruity excitement and the bitter thrill these hops have to offer. Brew and cheers to the witty world of Riwaka Hops in beer!
