Artichoke flavor in beer hops is not typically sought after, but it can find its place in specific brewing situations, lending a unique profile to certain beer styles. It's most acceptable in styles that support earthy and vegetal characteristics, such as certain Belgian styles or Saisons where a light touch of artichoke flavor might complement the often complex yeast-derived flavors. Additionally, some types of gruits, a style of beer brewed with a mix of herbs in lieu of hops, might appreciate an artichoke character for the added depth and uniqueness.
However, it's crucial to remember that artichoke-like flavors can often result from oxidation of certain hop compounds, and thus may indicate a poorly handled hop or beer. Brewers typically consider it a fault when it appears in most beer styles, particularly those reliant on fresh, bright hop character like IPAs or Pale Ales. It's a delicate balance to strike – while using hops that give an artichoke flavor could add complexity to specific styles, it might also compromise the overall freshness and vibrancy. Brewers interested in exploring these flavors should do so with caution, and with a deep understanding of both the hops they're using and the beer style they're aiming to create.
Bobek hops, a diploid hybrid, were bred in the Zalec region of Slovenia, alongside Blisk and Buket. The aim was to create a cultivar with both high alpha and good aroma. The parents of Bobek are Northern Brewer and a Slovenian male. Despite its pleasant floral aroma and high alpha, Bobek is not being commercially produced at this time. …