Introducing The Exquisite Eclipse Hops: Unearth the Full Flavour, Substitutes & Styles
Whether you’re a proud homebrew hobbyist or a seasoned sommelier in the craft beer space, hops are likely a familiar component of your brewing lingo. One variety that has been making waves in Australia and beyond is the Eclipse hop. Known for its multifaceted flavour profile and versatility, it’s a favourite among brewers and beer enthusiasts alike. So, let’s leap into the world of Eclipse hops and uncover their unique history, flavour, application in beer styles, and suitable substitutes.
A Brewed History: Rising into Eclipse
The Eclipse hop, also known as HPA-016, is a uniquely Australian hop bred from a lineage of high-quality parent hops. While the exact parentage is a well-guarded secret, it traces back to hops varieties of European ancestry. Developed by Hop Products Australia, one of the leading hop breeders in the world, Eclipse made its debut in 2020.
Named after the solar eclipse to signify its unique and standout qualities, Eclipse hop has quickly gained popularity amongst craft brewers in Australia and internationally. It’s primarily grown in Australia’s beer-rich regions, including Tasmania and Victoria.
Eclipsing Expectations: Hops Flavor & Characteristics
Bold, exciting and positively bursting with flavour, Eclipse hops are anything but subtle. They present a compelling blend of sweet mandarin, citrus peel, and fresh pine. The real standout is the wonderfully unique mandarin quality, which is very distinct in the brew.
The Eclipse hop is a high alpha acid hop, with levels ranging from 15-18%. This renders it not only suitable for introducing a unique, powerful medley of flavours but also ideal for bittering. On Beta acids, Eclipse presents 4.8-6.4% which contributes to the aroma of the brew. However, it’s the high oil content that makes this hop truly remarkable, resulting in an intense, lasting flavour and delightful aroma.
Exploring Eclipse Hops in Beer Styles
Eclipse hops make a harmonious match with a range of beer styles, particularly where a touch of zest is required. It is primarily used in American Pale Ales and IPAs, imparting a unique flavour that makes these brews memorable.
A shining example of an Aussie beer that utilises Eclipse hops is the ‘Hoppy Eclipse’ by Hop Nation. A limited release from the Melbourne-based brewery, this craft beer lets the intriguing flavours of Eclipse hops shine through.
Alternatives to Eclipse Hops
If, for any reason, Eclipse hops are unavailable, you don’t have to compromise your brew. Other hops can deliver somewhat similar profiles. Galaxy Hops, also an Australian variety, has substantial alpha acid content and a flavour profile reminiscent of juicy mandarins. Mosaic Hops, famed for their floral and tropical characteristics, can serve, too, as a decent stand-in for Eclipse, especially in IPAs and Pale Ales.
Eclipse Hops: Elevating the Beer Experience
The Eclipse hop, with its complex profile and all-around usability, has indeed cast a massive shadow in the beer world, especially in Australia. Its potent aroma, unmistakable mandarin notes, and impressive brewing versatility make it a standout addition to any beer recipe. Beers brewed with Eclipse hops are not just drinks; they’re an experience, a luscious journey in each sip.
So, if you’re in Australia, we would highly recommend visiting a local craft brewery to sample the unique flavours of Eclipse hops. And if you’re a homebrewer, it might be the perfect time to start experimenting with this transfixing hop variety. After all, the world of brewing is nothing without exploration and ex-beer-imentation.
