Beer Explorer

For the craft beer lover who wants to go deeper in understanding the various types of hops used in the beer he loves, or for the one who wants to know which hops to get in order to brew that beer at home, we have created these profiles of the main hops used to brew craft beer. We hope it will help as you make delicious beer at home. If you are a parent especially, you know that it may be easier to enjoy your favorite beer at home than to venture out on the town. So, towards this end, what are Nelson Sauvin hops, what’s their history, and how are they unique?

Nelson Sauvin hops are a variety of hops that originated in New Zealand and are highly regarded for their unique flavor and aroma profile, which has made them particularly popular in the craft brewing industry. Named after the Sauvignon Blanc grape due to their similar fruity characteristics, Nelson Sauvin hops offer a distinctive combination of flavors and aromas, including fresh crushed gooseberry, white grape, and tropical fruit notes. This complex profile can add a significant depth of flavor to beers, making them a favorite among craft brewers looking to create innovative and distinctive brews.

The history of Nelson Sauvin hops dates back to their development and release by New Zealand’s HortResearch (now part of Plant & Food Research) in 2000. The hops are the result of a breeding program that aimed to create new and unique hop varieties that could offer different flavors and aromas to the brewing industry. Nelson Sauvin hops quickly gained popularity for their versatility and distinctive character, allowing brewers to experiment with new styles of beer or add a twist to traditional styles.

In the brewing of craft beer, Nelson Sauvin hops are distinctive for several reasons:

1. Unique Flavor and Aroma Profile: Their ability to impart a range of fruity and wine-like flavors makes them a sought-after choice for craft brewers aiming to stand out in a crowded market. The hops are often used in IPAs, Pale Ales, and other styles where a pronounced hop character is desired.
2. Versatility: Nelson Sauvin hops can be used at different stages of the brewing process, including for bittering, flavoring, and aroma additions. This versatility allows brewers to experiment with the timing and quantity of hop additions to achieve different effects in the final beer.
3. High Alpha Acids Content: With a relatively high alpha acid content (ranging from about 12% to 13%), Nelson Sauvin hops can contribute a good level of bitterness to beer, making them suitable for use in recipes that require a balance between bitterness and the hops’ distinctive fruity and wine-like character.
4. International Appeal: While originating in New Zealand, Nelson Sauvin hops have found a place in the global craft brewing scene, with brewers around the world seeking them out for their unique characteristics. This international appeal has contributed to their reputation as a premium hop variety.

The distinctive qualities of Nelson Sauvin hops make them a valuable ingredient in the craft brewing industry, offering brewers the ability to create unique and flavorful beers that stand out in a competitive market.