Crystal is a triploid variety that was bred by U.S.D.A. from Hallertau mf, Cascade, Northern Brewer, and Early Green. It is perceived as the most pungent of the triploid Hallertau family of hops, and is increasingly popular among U.S. craft brewers. It is a versatile variety that is used in Pilsners and Lagers, as well as in ESB’s and American and Belgian-style Ales. Crystal is primarily grown in Oregon.
These three super high alpha varieties are often grouped together and referred to as CT Z. Each of these varieties has alpha acid content of between 14.5-16.5% and share the same female parent as Nugget. Originally bred for their high alpha value, they have also become popular for their oil profile.
Citra is an aroma variety that was released in 2007 by Hop Breeding Co. Ltd., a joint venture between John I. Haas, Inc. and Yakima Chief Inc. Citra has fairly high alpha acids and total oils, and it imparts a distinctive citrus character to beer.
Ahtanum is an aroma-type cultivar bred by Yakima Chief Ranches. It is used for its aromatic properties and moderate bittering. The variety is named after the location where Charles Carpenter established the first hop farm in the Yakima Valley in 1869.
Apollo is a super high alpha variety that was developed by the Hopsteiner Breeding Program and released in 2006. It is resistant to powdery and downy mildew. The very high alpha, good storage stability and low cohumulone ratio makes it an excellent choice for bittering. Added late into the boil it provides a strong grapefruit and hoppy note.
Amarillo is an aroma variety of recent origin, discovered and introduced by Vigil Gamache Farms Inc. in Washington State. It is most often used as a late kettle or dry hop addition to American style Pale Ales and IPA’s due to its signature aroma characteristics.
Chinook was developed by the U.S.D.A. breeding program in Washington State and released in 1985 as a high alpha variety. It has a highly acceptable beer aroma profile with smooth bitterness and full flavor.
Cascade is an aroma hop that was developed by the U.S.D.A. breeding program in Oregon and released in 1972. It has a medium strength aroma that provides a unique floral/spicy character with well balanced bittering potential. It is the most popular hop with the U.S. craft brewing industry.
Crystal is a triploid variety that was bred by U.S.D.A. from Hallertau mf, Cascade, Northern Brewer, and Early Green. It is perceived as the most pungent of the triploid Hallertau family of hops, and is increasingly popular among U.S. craft brewers. It is a versatile variety that is used in Pilsners and Lagers, as well as in ESB’s and American and Belgian-style Ales. Crystal is primarily grown in Oregon.
