Hops Like Wine

New Zealand’s Plant and Foods Research Division developed the Nelson Sauvin hop and released it in 2000. They named it after 1) Nelson, New Zealand, and 2) the fact that it produces aromas and flavors reminiscent of one of New Zealand’s favorite grapes, Sauvignon Blanc.

Successful as an aroma hop, a bittering hop, and a flavor hop it can give your beer unique characteristics. It’s kind of citrusy and also kind of fruity, kind of … well … grape-like. Despite its uniqueness (or maybe because of it), it’s become popular in American Pale Ales and IPAs.

This Thursday, we’ll be tasting beers with different expressions of the Nelson Sauvin hop. Please stop by anytime within the hour and a half for this free, walk-up tasting.