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Ingredients / Recipes

Hop Focus

By:Yohanna Best
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hops
MASHED ISSUE 23

Azaccaâ„¢ (USA)

Azacca™ is a hop that has become a favourite among brewers for its bold and versatile flavour profile. Released in 2013 by the American Dwarf Hop Association (ADHA), this hop boasts an impressive alpha acid range of 14–16%. Its lineage includes Northern Brewer, Summit™, and the Japanese variety Toyomidori, and its name pays homage to Azacca, the Haitian god of agriculture.

Bursting with vibrant flavours of mango, orange, and pine, Azacca™ is a powerhouse of tropical and citrus notes. Brewers will particularly notice highlights of orange, pink grapefruit, and mango, making it an outstanding all-rounder for a variety of beer styles. Whether you’re crafting a juicy IPA or experimenting with a tropical twist, Azacca™ delivers a unique depth and character that’s hard to beat.

Aroma: Tropical fruit, spice, white fruit

Alpha Acids: 14-16% | Beta Acids: 14-16 %

Total Oil: 10.6-20.5ml/100g

Blanc (Germany)

Released in 2012 by the Hop Research Center Hüll, Hallertau Blanc is a modern hop variety bred from Cascade, offering a delightful twist on traditional continental hops. With an alpha acid range of 9–12%, Blanc is especially well-suited for paler beer styles, thanks to its fruity and vibrant flavour profile.

Blanc brings an array of elegant flavours to the brew, including notes of white grape, lemongrass, and passion fruit. Its name is inspired by Sauvignon Blanc, a grape variety with which it shares similar aromatic characteristics. This unique connection makes Blanc an excellent choice for crafting refreshing, aromatic beers that stand out for their distinct character and balance.

Aroma: White fruit, citrus, floral/herbal

Alpha Range: 9-12% | Beta Range: 9-12%

Total Oil: 10.2-10.5ml/100g

Ernest (UK)

Ernest, named after its breeder Professor Ernest Salmon, boasts a rich history dating back to its selection at Wye College in Kent in 1923. Initially coded as OZ97a, it underwent brewing trials by the Institute of Brewing in 1959 but was deemed a less favourable substitute for the Fuggle variety due to its “strong, coarse, American aroma.” Despite this early reception, Ernest’s remarkable "New World" characteristics have since earned it a place in the spotlight.

With an alpha acid range of 5–7%, Ernest delivers a complex flavour profile dominated by fruity notes of apricot, nectarine, and a touch of spice. This late-maturing variety grows on tall wirework and produces distinctly long cones, showcasing its unique agricultural traits. 

Aroma: Stone fruit, citrus, spice

Alpha Range: 5-7% | Beta Range: 5-7%

Total Oil: 0.7-10.1ml/100g

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