A toast to the noble hops
In the fascinating universe of beer, few terms catch attention such as ‘noble hops’. These varieties, from the lands of Central Europe, have become their own right in the stars of the beer world, offering a unique palate that delights fans. But do you really know what makes a hops considered ‘noble’? We are going to discover it, with a glass of beer in your hand and a smile on your face!
The essence of noble lipos
The noble hops are a select type of hops cultivated in regions with a privileged climate of Europe, including Germany, Czech Republic and France. They stand out for their subtle flavors, which offer floral and spicy aromas and slight notes of herbs and fruits. The list includes famous varieties such as:
A look at the stars
Here we leave you a brief profile of some of the best known noble hops:
Hops and his fragile friendships
The fundamental difference between these hops and the most contemporaries, which are usually more tropical or citrus, lies in their elegance. The nobles provide sophistication and depth to classical beers such as lagers and pilsners, perfect for those who appreciate a well balanced flavor without excess.
Since the past: a beer legacy
The story of these hops does not begin yesterday. It arises in the fourteenth century, when European farmers began to cultivate specific varieties on selected land. For example, the Czech region of Žatec was already renamed its hops in the century (surprise!) XII.
A TIME JOURNEY
The era of the Renaissance brought with it an boom in the cultivation of hops in Germany, promoting the creation of iconic varieties. The term ‘noble’ seems to have found its way in the twentieth century to describe the superior quality of these botanical jewels. And, although there is no precise scientific definition, the beer community has agreed that this nobility comes from its unique character!
Breaking the charm of noble hops
Let’s enter a little more in detail about our Noblile stars. Everyone has their peculiarity that makes them enjoy alone.
Sacon
Considered the soul of the Bohemian Pilsners, its Herbal profile is so delicate that it feels like a breath of fresh air. And for those who are lovers of bass bitterness, this is the king!
Column columns
With its earthly sweetness and its history that dates back to the fifteenth century, this hops will become your faithful companion for an Altbier. Be careful, you can become addictive!
Tettnang Tettnanger
The complexity of his flavors makes us feel as if we were enjoying an autumn afternoon. Ideal for wheat beers, leaves you wanting more!
The road to the future
However, the future of these noble hops is not as bright as their past. Climate change and pests threaten their existence, which has led researchers to work on the creation of hybrids that maintain the best of their essence. Innovation, such as Saphir or Opal hops, is here to stay.
A resurgence of tradition
Not everything is challenges, there is also a renovated waves of beer styles that have driven projects that seek to preserve these hops. Initiatives such as ‘Save the Noble Hops’ are making a difference, ensuring that these varieties continue cascading happiness in our glasses.
