Home > Learning Center > Brewing Hops

Brewing Hops

Generally, brewing hops are dried out in an oast house before they are used in the brewing process.  Hope resins consist of alpha and beta acids. Alpha acids are responsible for beer’s bitter flavor, whereas beta acids contribute more to the beer’s aroma.

While the effect of hops on the finished beer will vary by type and by use, the two main effects influence bitterness and aroma. Bittering hops have higher concentrations of alpha acids. Aroma hops usually have a lower concentration of alpha acids and are the primary contributors of hop aroma and a less bitter, fruitier flavor.

Bittering hops are boiled for a longer period of time in order to maximize the effect of the alpha acids. This is partially why they have inferior aromatic properties, as these compounds evaporate during the prolonged boil.

 

Home Brewing | Brewing Supplies | Learning Center | Site Map | Links | Contact | Home

©