Argentine Hops

**TexLaw** · 02-22-2008, 01:45 PM

I picked up some of these recently out of curiosity and after reading Northern Brewer's description:

Quote:

These Argentinian-grown Cascades are not like American Cascade - they have a very mellow and sweet character that reminds us of lemon grass, with herbal, peppery, and spicy undertones. A versatile hop to use for ales and lagers - strangely, with its sweet/spicy aroma this hop would make a good substitute for Hallertau-type and Goldings-type hops, but not a good substitute for American Cascade!

I'm not quite sure how to describe them any better right now (although I want to check it out again this evening). This is a very interesting hop, distinct from from anything else, somewhat like a citrusy Styrian Goldings. The first thing I thought of was a witbier, but these could work well in any Belgian style. A Belgian Pale, Strong Golden, or Trippel would kick butt with these. They would also make an interesing Pilsner, Kölsch, or American Wheat. German wheat beers would love some of these hops, and I bet they could really shine in a Roggenbier!

I agree that these are, in no way, a good substitute for American Cascades. However, they should blend well with American hops and could add some interesting complexity to the American Ales when used in late additions or first wort hopping. You could certainly make a very tasty beer using these as your exclusive late addition hops, but do not expect a medal from Category 10.

They are only good for bittering your lightest styles, as the bag I received says they are 3.2% AA.

I really hope these hops catch on!

TL

Soulive · 02-22-2008, 01:46 PM

I've been hearing about them a lot lately. This is the kind of thing that I was hoping to see out of the shortage, new ideas! Keep us updated on your results...

**TexLaw** · 02-22-2008, 01:50 PM

Will do. I was thinking about a witbier, but I might want to do something that showcases these hops more than that. I might do an APA style beer with these for the late addition.

Also, as best as I can tell, they are available only in pellet form. I even got these things from Freshops, and they are pellets. That doesn't bother me in the least, but I do not want any whole hop guys to be disappointed.

TL

Soulive · 02-22-2008, 01:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TexLaw

Will do. I was thinking about a witbier, but I might want to do something that showcases these hops more than that. I might do an APA style beer with these for the late addition.

Also, as best as I can tell, they are available only in pellet form. I even got these things from Freshops, and they are pellets. That doesn't bother me in the least, but I do not want any whole hop guys to be disappointed.

TL

I'm fine with pellets. How about a modest APA dryhopped with them? That's what I'd probably try...

**TexLaw** · 02-22-2008, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Soulive

I'm fine with pellets. How about a modest APA dryhopped with them? That's what I'd probably try...

Yes, I was thinking dry hopping with them exclusively or in part.

TL

ohiobrewtus · 02-22-2008, 02:02 PM

It sounds very interesting indeed. I look forward to hearing your results.

Funkenjaeger · 02-22-2008, 02:07 PM

Seems to me that if they're wildly different than the american cascade that we all know and love, then maybe they should give them a new name to avoid confusion... There's already so many named varieties out there to try to keep track of, one more wouldn't hurt

nl724 · 04-04-2008, 02:10 PM

I am just curious did anyone brew with these? Any opinions?

**TexLaw** · 04-04-2008, 02:18 PM

I did. More to come on that when I rack next week.

TL

Evan! · 04-04-2008, 02:20 PM

What did you pay per ounce?