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 Azacca hops, what’s their history, and how are they unique?

Azacca hops are a zesty variety of hop, aptly named after Azacca, the Haitian god of agriculture. These hops burst onto the scene in 2013, courtesy of the American Dwarf Hop Association in Washington State’s bountiful Yakima Valley.

Azacca hops are quite the charmers for a few fruity reasons:

1. Aroma and Flavor Profile: They pack a tropical punch with aromatic waves of mango, pineapple, and a zest of citrus, all while balancing undertones of pine and a hint of spice. This makes them a go-to for brewing IPAs and APAs (American Pale Ales) that want to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
2. Versatility: Not only do Azacca hops know how to mingle in the aroma department, but they’re also quite adept at adding a robust bitterness, thanks to their moderately high alpha acid content (around 14-16%). This dual talent makes them the life of the party in various brewing stages, enhancing both the kick and the nose of the beer.
3. Craft Brewing Stardom: In the craft beer world, Azacca hops are the tropical twist that keeps on giving, especially beloved in juicy or hazy IPAs where their full flavor spectrum can really pop. They’re a favorite for brewers looking to experiment and push the boundaries of beer with bold, fruity notes.

The rise of Azacca hops is a testament to the craft beer movement’s love affair with distinct, full-flavored hops that add depth and character to every sip.