Idaho 7 hops, named after the state where they were developed, bring a distinct and captivating flavour profile to the world of craft beer. Known for their intriguing blend of tropical fruit, citrus, and pine characteristics, Idaho 7 hops have gained popularity among brewers and beer enthusiasts alike. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to explore the unique qualities of Idaho 7 hops, including their origins, flavour attributes, and the impact they have had on the craft beer landscape.
Origins of Idaho 7 Hops
Idaho 7 hops were bred and developed by the Jackson Hop Farm in Wilder, Idaho. They made their debut in 2015 and have since become a signature hop variety of the Gem State. As a result, Idaho 7 hops embody the spirit and essence of the region, making them a source of pride for Idaho’s craft beer industry.
Unique Characteristics of Idaho 7 Hops
Idaho 7 hops possess a range of unique attributes that set them apart from other hop varieties. Here are some notable characteristics:
Tropical Fruit Medley
Idaho 7 hops offer a captivating blend of tropical fruit flavours. Expect notes of ripe pineapple, juicy mango, and sweet apricot, which create a luscious and exotic taste experience. The tropical fruit medley of Idaho 7 hops brings a delightful and refreshing quality to beers.
Citrus and Tangerine Zest
Alongside their tropical fruit character, Idaho 7 hops contribute bright citrus and tangerine notes. These citrusy elements provide a zesty and tangy twist to the hop profile, adding complexity and a burst of freshness to the beer.
Resinous Pine Undertones
Idaho 7 hops offer subtle resinous pine undertones that add depth to their flavour profile. This element of pine creates a well-rounded hop character and contributes to the overall complexity of beers brewed with Idaho 7 hops.
Moderate Bitterness
With alpha acid content ranging from 10% to 14%, Idaho 7 hops provide a moderate level of bitterness. This balanced bitterness allows the hop’s unique flavours to shine without overpowering the palate, making them versatile for various beer styles.
Impact on Craft Beer
Idaho 7 hops have made a significant impact on the craft beer industry, influencing the flavour profiles of various beer styles. Here are a few ways Idaho 7 hops have left their mark:
India Pale Ales (IPAs)
Idaho 7 hops are frequently used in IPAs, where their tropical fruit, citrus, and pine characteristics shine. They contribute to the hop-forward nature of IPAs, enhancing the beer with a delightful combination of flavours that captivate hop enthusiasts.
Pale Ales and Amber Ales
Idaho 7 hops are also popular in Pale Ales and Amber Ales, adding a unique hop character that complements the malt backbone. They contribute a balanced blend of tropical fruit, citrus, and pine, creating a flavourful and well-rounded beer.
Experimental and Collaborative Brews
Idaho 7 hops are often sought after for experimental and collaborative brews. Their unique flavour profile allows brewers to push boundaries and create innovative beers that showcase the versatility and creativity of Idaho 7 hops.
Single-Hop Showcases
Idaho 7 hops shine in single-hop showcase beers, allowing brewers and beer enthusiasts to fully appreciate their distinct qualities. These beers highlight the full range of tropical fruit, citrus, and pine flavours that Idaho 7 hops offer, providing a memorable tasting experience.
Hops in detail…
Conclusion
Idaho 7 hops offer a taste of the Gem State in the craft beer world, delivering a captivating blend of tropical fruit, citrus, and pine flavours. With their origins rooted in Idaho and their distinct characteristics, Idaho 7 hops have become a prized ingredient for brewers seeking to create beers that embody the essence of the region. As you raise a glass of beer featuring Idaho 7 hops, relish in the unique flavour experience they provide and appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into brewing with these remarkable hops.
