Helga Hops

Helga hops, an Australian cultivar, have a rich history rooted in the desire to capture the noble European aroma while thriving in the Australian climate. Originally known as Southern Hallertau, Helga was bred in 1986 by Hop Products Australia from the Hallertauer Mittelfrüh lineage. This breeding aimed to retain the characteristic noble aroma of its parent. Helga hops are versatile and can be added at any point during the brewing process, from bittering to dry hopping, always yielding pleasant results. The flavor profile of Helga is reminiscent of its European ancestry, offering a delicate blend of floral and spicy notes. This makes it an excellent choice for malt-driven ales and lagers, imparting a refined character typical of European hops.

Helga's journey in the brewing world has been a quiet one. Despite its noble characteristics and forgiving nature in various beer styles, it took nearly a decade after its debut in 1986 for Helga to gain commercial traction. The surge in interest from craft brewers eventually found Helga a place in a diverse range of craft beer styles, from American Pale Ales to IPAs. However, it's essential to note that Helga's popularity has seen fluctuations. By 2017, Hop Products Australia decided to cease its cultivation, making it a rarer find in the brewing community.