The Mystique of Nectaron Hops in Beer: Unearthing Flavours, Substitutes and Styles
G’day hop heads! Today, we’re diving into the refreshing world of the Nectaron hop. This unique beer ingredient is a thriving hit Down Under in the craft beer industry. Ranging from its rich history, vibrant flavour and characteristics, to its common substitutions and styles, it’s no wonder Australia and the rest of the world are hopping mad about it.
The Nectaron Hop’s History: From Birth to Brew
Bred by Plant & Food Research in Nelson, New Zealand, Nectaron is a new-comer in the world of hops, also known as NZH-107. It received its name Nectaron, from Nectar of the Gods, distinguishing its divine qualities. From its humble beginnings in New Zealand to its international fame today, this hop has quickly seeped into thirsty tastebuds worldwide, establishing significant popularity in Australia’s craft beer hotspot.
Nectaron Hop’s Character: An All-Star Flavour Profile
Renowned for its robust punch of fruity and citrusy flavours, Nectaron doesn’t shy away from the spotlight in any pint. It has characteristic aromas of tropical fruit, including mango and pineapple, paired brilliantly with ripe stone fruit, providing a juicy fruit salad experience. Exquisitely matched with a dash of pine and sweet floral undertones, the Nectaron hop is truly a refreshing bouquet. With Alpha Acids ranging between 9.5-11.5% and Beta Acids at 4.5-6%, it packs a substantial punch, dialling up the bitterness while keeping it balanced.
A real standout of the Nectaron hop is it’s incredible dual-purpose nature. It’s a chameleon in the brewing process, useful for both bittering and aroma/dry hopping additions in beer recipes. The potency of its flavour and aroma make it an ideal candidate for late additions and dry hopping.
The Nectaron Hop in Action: Popular Beer Styles
Find the Nectaron hop playing starring roles in many popular beer styles, particularly American Pale Ales, India Pale Ales, and New Zealand Pilsners. Due to its robust tropical character, it plays nicely in beers that seek a bold hop presence while balancing sweetness and bitterness.
A go-to brew featuring the Nectaron hop is Balter Brewery’s “IIPA” Double India Pale Ale. Proudly Australian, the beer showcases the hop’s flamboyant tropical fruit and floral qualities, coupled perfectly with a layered malt backbone.
Alternative Mates: Nectaron Hop Substitutes
Got a brewing recipe calling for Nectaron but coming up short? Do not fear! Good substitutes include the Mosaic hop known for its diverse palette of fruity and earthy notes. Also to its sibling hops, Motueka and Nelson Sauvin provide similar citrusy, fruity characteristics.
Wrapped Up: Why Nectaron Hops are the Bee’s Knees
The Nectaron Hop is refreshingly bold, exceptionally versatile and brimming with character. Offering an unrivalled blend of tropical, fruity notes, and a consistently balanced bitterness, it’s become a go-to hop for both drinking and brewing. From Australia to its home in New Zealand and beyond, Nectaron’s not just a hop—it’s an experience.
Feeling inspired? Ready to get your taste buds around a beer with Nectaron hops? Head down to your local brewery to experience this incredible hop variety. And if the home brewer in you is itching to experiment, why not introduce your next batch to the magic of Nectaron hops? Guaranteed, you won’t be disappointed.
