First Gold Hops
Also known as: Prima Donna
- Recipes:
- 5,330
- Purpose:
- Dual Purpose
- Alpha:
- Moderate
- Origin:
- 🇬🇧 Great Britain
Profile
First Gold hops, a delightful and versatile variety, originated in the United Kingdom during the early 1990s. Developed by Wye College in England, this hop is a crossbreed between the classic English hop varieties Whitbread Golding Variety (WGV) and a dwarf male hop. The result is a unique hop that combines the best traits of its parent varieties, with the added benefit of being easier to harvest due to its dwarf growth habit. First Gold hops have gained popularity among both commercial and homebrewers alike, providing a refined and balanced character to various beer styles.
The flavor profile of First Gold hops is characterized by its distinctively fruity and slightly spicy notes. With flavors reminiscent of marmalade, orange zest, and hints of floral and earthy undertones, these hops contribute a well-rounded complexity to the brew. Aromas of magnolia and apricot further enhance its appeal. With an alpha acid content typically ranging from 6.5% to 9%, First Gold hops are versatile enough to be used for both bittering and aroma additions in the brewing process. This hop variety works particularly well in traditional English ales, such as bitters, pale ales, and ESBs, as well as in modern craft beer styles like IPAs and saisons. As a homebrewer, you'll find First Gold hops to be a valuable addition to your brewing repertoire, offering a distinctive and appealing character that elevates your beer's overall profile.