Menthol flavors in hops can add a unique, refreshing twist to certain beer styles. These cool, minty notes are often found in hops such as Polaris and Northern Brewer. While not common in traditional beer styles, menthol characteristics can be desirable in experimental and craft brews, such as Stouts, Porters, and Winter Warmers. The menthol nuances can complement the rich, roasted malt profiles of these beers, providing a refreshing contrast and creating a balanced, intriguing experience for the discerning beer enthusiast.
Herkules hops, also known as "Hallertauer Herkules", originated in Germany and are a product of the Hull Hop Research Institute, where they were developed as a high-alpha bittering hop in 2005. They are a cross between the Hallertauer Taurus and a male hop plant from the Hallertau region, which is renowned for its excellent hop varieties. The Herkules hops have …
Northern Brewer hops are a versatile and well-regarded hop variety, originating from England in the early 20th century. Developed in 1934 at Wye College by crossing between East Kent Golding and a Brewer's Gold male, the hop was initially cultivated in England. Later on, this hop variety gained popularity in Germany, where it was widely adopted by the brewing industry. …
Polaris is a relatively new German hop variety that was developed in 2012. It is known for its high alpha acid content, which can range from 18-23%, making it an excellent choice for bittering in beer brewing. Polaris hops also have a unique aroma profile, with notes of mint, eucalyptus, and pine, as well as some hints of lemon and …