What are Hallertau Hops?
What are Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops, where do they come from, and how do they make beer taste and smell?
Written by CraftJack | Updated | 2 min read
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Hallertau hops are a type of hop that have been grown in Bavaria for centuries. They are an extremely popular variety due to their distinctive aroma and flavor profile, which has become known as the "noble" or "traditional" German hop taste.
Hallertau Origin & History
Hallertau hops are one of four noble varieties, meaning they grow in the wild instead of being bred. German hop researchers continue to tinker with the variety and created a number of strains over time, strains such as Hallertau-Tettnang, a hybridized cross that became very popular during those mid-'70s/early '80s times. It has since regained its popularity among brewers because unlike other famous European cultivars like Spalt or Saaz.
The Hallertau region is also one of only three areas in the world where this particular type of hop can be found. The other two - insert data
Hallertau Aroma
Hallertauer Mittelfrueh has become popular among craft brewers for its distinctively earthy flavor profile. That earthiness, combined with an aroma that some say smells like apricots or cherries depending on what brewing style they use them in, has made them a unique choice for American craft brewers who are largely producing IPAs in today's market.
What types of beers are typically brewed with Hallertau Hops?
Hallertau hops are typically used in German & American lagers. Their floral and earthy aroma contain just the tiniest hint of spice, which makes them perfect for use as both flavorings and aromatics.
Beer Styles
- Altbier
- Bock
- Kolsch
- Munich Helles
- Pilsner
Commercial Examples
| ABV | Beer | Brewery |
|---|---|---|
| 11% |
Mad Elf |
Tröegs Brewing Company |
| 4.5% |
Noho |
Progression Brewing Company |
| 4.9% |
Green State Lager |
Zero Gravity |
| 5% |
Kellerbier |
Northwoods Brewing Company |
| 5.3% |
Cold Snap |
Samuel Adams Brewery |
| 5.6% |
Fall Festival |
Ellicottville Brewing Company |
| 5.6% |
Festbier |
Victory Brewing Company |
Substitute Hops Similar to Hallertau
- Crystal
- Liberty
- Tettnanger
- Vanguard
Interesting Hallertau Facts
- There is a board game named Hallertau where the primary goal is to grow hops and basically kickstart the Hallertau region by way of hop production. Sounds awesome.
- There is a Hallertau Brewery in New Zealand. Solid brewery name there.
- Hop Research Center Hüll (Hopfenforschungszentrum Hüll) is a research institute for the advancement of hop development. Cool place to study abroad.