A tour of the stars of the hops on the other side of the world
In recent years, the artisanal beer scene has revealed an interesting surprise: the hops from Oceania, especially from New Zealand and Australia, have not only climbed in popularity, but have become key pieces for those looking for that tropical and fruity touch in their favorite beers. What mysteries hide these varieties that have fallen in love with beer teachers around the globe?
An explosion of flavors from the distant islands
New Zealand, with its meticulous increase in hops plantations, has positioned itself as a power in this field. Among its most coveted stars are varieties such as Nelson Sauvin, famous for its aroma of grape and curling; Motueka, with citrus and tropical notes; and Wai-Ite, which provides fruit nuances with a very particular character. The list continues with Riwaka, Rakau, Waimea and the innovative Superdelic, each showing an unparalleled personality that brings to beers an aromatic profile free of comparisons.
Australia, on the other hand, is not far behind with its diverse range of lupulos such as Galaxy, Topaz and the enigma enigma. These ingredients not only show a strong inheritance in the style of the Northwest coast, but have also been selectively raised to offer fruit profiles ranging from mango and passion fruit to grapes and moscatel. The experiential closeness with tropical fruit flavors causes these hops to be coveted in northern America, although its price can be on the cusp.
Application and magic in the beer pot
The secret of these hops is not only in their aromatic profile, but also in how they are used in the manufacture of styles as popular as IPAS and Hazy, those cloudy beers that seem like an expression of tendency and creativity. Most of these varieties are rich in compounds called thioles and in aromatic components such as geraniol and linalool, which enhance that feeling of fruits and tropicality in each sip.
In addition, in many artisanal beers, these varieties are incorporated into final stages through techniques such as Dry Hopping, which allows its most aromatic qualities to be maximized without losing intensity. Some are also available in Cry-Hop version, which is concentrated dust, ideal to burn less time in elaboration and further enhance these fruit and tropical notes.
The future that is painted with adventure
These oceanic varieties seem to be in full flight, transforming the way in which acidic, cloudy and full of character beers are conceived. Innovation continues, and the demand for these unique hops, with their powerful and different aromatic profiles, anticipates a horizon where beer creativity only has to explore beyond traditional borders.
As you experience more brewers with these jewels, it would not be surprising to see in the near future how beers with flavors “from the other tip of the planet” become the norm, not only in festivals but in homes where the passion for the artisanal grows at every step.
