oin us on a journey through the verdant landscape of hops. Let’s discover the top 10 hops currently shaping the flavours of craft beer, their roots, and their aromatic profiles.

1. Citra (United States)

Citra hops, born in the US, are known for their bright citrusy profile. Expect lively grapefruit, lime, and tropical mango notes. A favourite for crafting tantalising IPAs and Pale Ales.

2. Mosaic (United States)

Mosaic hops paint a rich canvas of flavour. This American variety offers a bouquet of floral, tropical, fruity, and earthy notes, including unique hints of blueberry and tangerine.

3. Simcoe (United States)

Simcoe, bred in Washington’s Yakima Valley, balances passionfruit, berry, pine, and a dash of citrus. Its dual-purpose character makes it a staple in a wide range of brews.

4. Amarillo (United States)

Amarillo, a newer-kid-on-the-block from the US, infuses beers with a delectable blend of orange, grapefruit, and floral nuances, ideal for that refreshing citrusy twist.

5. Cascade (United States)

The pride of Oregon, Cascade hop launched the craft beer wave. Its grapefruit-citrus aroma, adorned with floral and spicy whispers, shines in American Pale Ales.

6. Saaz (Czech Republic)

Saaz, one of the noble hops from Czech Republic, imparts a delicate earthy and herbal profile, and a touch of spice. It’s the soul of traditional Pilsners and Lagers.

7. Hallertau Mittelfrüh (Germany)

Germany’s Hallertau Mittelfrüh, a noble hop, presents a refined aroma composition of floral, earthy, and mild spice nuances. It finds its home in German Lagers and Wheat Beers.

8. Galaxy (Australia)

Galaxy hops, hailing from Australia, burst onto your palate with a universe of tropical fruit flavours, most notably passionfruit, entwined with notes of citrus and peach.

9. Nelson Sauvin (New Zealand)

New Zealand’s Nelson Sauvin hops evoke a unique, wine-like profile. They channel the essence of Sauvignon Blanc grapes, imbued with white grape, gooseberry, and tropical fruit tones.

10. East Kent Goldings (United Kingdom)

East Kent Goldings, quintessentially British, offer an elegant mélange of floral, honey, and earthy aromas, with a citrusy undertone. The cornerstone of many British Ales.

Here’s a handy summary table to compare these hop stars:

Hop Variety	Origin	Key Aromas
Citra	United States	Grapefruit, Lime, Mango
Mosaic	United States	Floral, Blueberry, Tangerine
Simcoe	United States	Passionfruit, Berry, Pine
Amarillo	United States	Orange, Grapefruit, Floral
Cascade	United States	Grapefruit, Floral, Spicy
Saaz	Czech Republic	Earthy, Herbal, Spicy
Hallertau Mittelfrüh	Germany	Floral, Earthy, Mild Spice
Galaxy	Australia	Passionfruit, Citrus, Peach
Nelson Sauvin	New Zealand	White Grape, Gooseberry, Tropical Fruit
East Kent Goldings	United Kingdom	Floral, Honey, Earthy, Citrus

In the craft beer world, every hop plays its part in the orchestra of flavours. Knowing your hops is like knowing the musicians; it heightens your appreciation of the symphony. Sláinte!