Admiral Hops

Admiral hops, first bred in England in the late 20th century, are a popular variety known for their strong, clean bittering capabilities and unique flavor profile. Developed by Wye College, they are a cross between the Challenger and Northdown hops, two well-established British varieties. With an alpha acid content typically ranging from 13 to 16%, Admiral hops offer potent bittering properties that make them a favorite choice for homebrewers and commercial brewers alike.

The aroma and flavor profile of Admiral hops are distinct, marked by a delightful blend of citrus, floral, and earthy notes. These hops impart a touch of orange and marmalade-like flavors to the beer, along with subtle hints of cedar and pine. This complex combination of flavors makes Admiral hops particularly suitable for brewing traditional English ales, such as Extra Special Bitter (ESB) and India Pale Ale (IPA), as well as American-style ales that require a strong, clean bitter backbone. When utilized as a late addition or for dry hopping, Admiral hops can also contribute a unique, pleasant aroma to your brew. As a homebrewer, experimenting with Admiral hops will allow you to explore a fascinating combination of traditional and modern brewing techniques, ultimately enhancing your craft and expanding your beer portfolio.