question about hops

[bernardsmith]

Recipes include specific hops but how do brewers determine which specific hops are likely to work best in a recipe? There seems to me to be so many variables and if you make such large batches how can you tell that this variety at 60 minutes works really nicely with that variety at 15 and this third kind at flameout but if you use that other variety at 30 minutes then the better choice for a dry hop is this other kind? Or are these choices more or less based on personal preferences and it does not really matter very much which hops you use except that you want to balance the total bitterness with the total sweetness... and all other things are about your own tastes and choices?

 

[AnOldUR]

This is the best reference I've found, but in the end you have to brew a lot of beer and find out what you like. Look into SMaSH brewing.

There's more to hops than balancing bitterness with malt character. The flavor and aroma contributions are what keep me brewing hoppy beers.

 

[wanders]

Or are these choices more or less based on personal preferences and it does not really matter very much which hops you use except that you want to balance the total bitterness with the total sweetness... and all other things are about your own tastes and choices?

If you are trying to stick to a defined style then your choice is generally pretty straightforward: use whatever has been used historically to brew that style. But if you start experimenting and moving beyond those styles then yes it is absolutely a decision your base on your experience, you flavor preferences, and of course lots of experimentation

 

[Puddlethumper]

As said above, there are patterns to hop choices that others have made and that continue to work well...traditions if you like. But when choosing hops it is largely a matter of taste.

You can learn what the traditional choices are by picking a style and then look up a bunch of different recipes for that style. After a while you'll begin to see patterns develop. You can also buy books about how to brew a particular style.

But to create unique beers you may need to venture beyond the traditional. That choice carries risks. For example: A well regarded micro-brewery in southern Cal makes a very hoppy APA with Amarillo hops. It must be well liked because it is widely sold. But I don't care for that much of that variety of hops, so I don't like that particular beer. The point is that once you get beyond the "traditional" choices you may win some friends with the creative side of your choices while you loose others.

 

[sky4meplease]

I found a helpful resource guide at byo.com for comparing and selecting hops. It allows you to choose a style of beer and populates to show appropriate hops for your choice. Additionally it lists Alpha Acid, possible substitutions and gives a flavor description.

 

[bernardsmith]

Many thanks for your responses. All very helpful indeed. I will look into the hop variety handbook and check out byo.com and indeed, work to become more familiar with traditional styles and their associated recipes. Again, thank you.

 

[bobeer]

As stated SMaSH's are a great way to explore a hop profile. I have a simple IPA grist that I always use a different single hop for and it's pretty amazing how much a beer can change by just using different hops. I've added flaked rye this last time and maybe next time I'll use a different base malt. It just all comes down to experimenting and discovering your personal tastes; which is what makes this hobby so awesome. Endless possibilities! :rockin:

 

[bernardsmith]

SMaSH does seem like a great idea not least because it would seem to allow you to change one variable and then compare the impact. The (social) scientist in me likes that idea - a lot. Thanks