In today’s present of time, you’re likely familiar with this new brewing trend—which is known as “Dry Hopping.” Except if you’re living under a rock, surely you’re unaware of this new trend.
That’s why we’ve created this blog, for you to understand “What is dry hopping?” and everything you must know regarding this question.
Don’t worry; all the contents of this blog are 100% reliable! So you don’t have to fear if we’re telling the truth or not since we’ve made a thorough research about this “Dry Hopping.” Shall we proceed?
What are Hops? And What is Dry Hopping?
Before we proceed on Dry Hopping, for sure some may not be familiar on what are “hops.” So, in order for you to understand the whole content of this blog, here’s a brief introduction of hops.
What are hops?
Hops play a vital role during the brewing process. They are the one who controls and contributes the flavor, bitterness, and aroma—depending on these three characteristics.
The aroma and flavor mainly come from volatile oils, at the same time, the bitterness mainly started from the alpha acids restrained inside the hops.
What is Dry Hopping?
Now that you’re clear on what hops are, let’s now continue to the main question of this blog. What is dry hopping?
Dry hopping started from Britain, and they are known for being the ‘hop-cones’ which prevent bacteria to form in the cask of a matured beer. And since hops already add flavors and aromas to the beer, breweries then decided to create a significant change that will turn your beer to another level!
Breweries exert an effort on creating this technique called dry hopping since it’s a game changer to your drink. They are mostly done after the fermentation process to increase the flavor of your fave beer—take note, without increasing the bitterness!
Amazing, isn’t it?
If you’re wondering what is the purpose of aromatic oil to some hop varieties in your beer, well they produce excess tastes and flavor making your beer taste wonderful!
| Aromatic Oil Contents | Hop Varieties | ||
| 0.4% to 1% | Styrian Golding | Czech Saaz | East Kent Golding |
| 0.8% to 1.5% | Cascade | ||
| 1.5% to 2.5% | Chinook | ||
| 2% to 2.5% | Simcoe | ||
Tips and Tricks for Dry Hopping
Boost Your Dry Hopping Expertise with These Proven Tips! Do you want to enhance your dry hopping skills? Here are some valuable tips to elevate your dry hopping game!
1. Choose Leaf Hops
Leaf hops are an ideal choice for dry hopping, praised by brewers for their ease of use and seamless transfer into fermented beer. These hops are not only efficient, but also effortless to handle, making them a top pick for dry hopping enthusiasts.
Not only do leaf hops simplify the process, but they also provide a consistent and reliable result every time. So, when you’re ready to step up your dry hopping game, consider using leaf hops for the best outcome.
2. Avoid Overloading
Remember, moderation is key in dry hopping. Excessive hops can overpower the taste of your beer, compromising its quality. For a balanced flavor, aim for 1-2 ounces of hops per batch.
Don’t let too many hops ruin your brewing masterpiece. Keep your dry hopping in check and achieve a perfect beer every time! Practice moderation and let the natural flavors shine through.
3. Re-Purpose Hops
Make the most of your hops by reusing them! This trick can enhance the aroma of your beer, giving it a boost of fragrance.
Why waste hops when you can give your beer an extra oomph of aroma? By reusing the hops, you’re not only being economical, but also elevating the sensory experience of your beer. So, next time you brew, don’t discard those hops, reuse them to enhance your beer’s aroma.
4. Supplement with Aroma Hops
Take your beer to the next level by supplementing with aroma hops. Ensure a smooth process by using a funnel and avoid potential harm to your carboy by not using a hop bag. The result? A beer with an elevated aroma that will tantalize your senses.
Different Ways to Dry Hop your Beer
Now that Tips and Tricks for dry hopping are done let’s now tell you some different ways to dry hop your beer. There are plenty of ways to dry hopping, but we picked these three different ways since they are mostly fun and novelty to create with. So let’s begin!
Randall
Start with a classic and revolutionary technique! Pioneered by the renowned Dogfish Head Brewing, the Randall allows your beer to flow through a chamber filled with fresh or dried hops for maximum hop contact. You can build your own Randall with a kegerator and special equipment, or order one directly from the Dogfish Head website.
Experience the convenience and excitement of dry hopping with the legendary Randall device. Upgrade your brewing process and make every beer unique.
French Press
Another brewing method that you should keep in mind is this French Press brewing technique, which will tell you the best aromas that will work with the beer you’re brewing. However, this method is not very ideal for some.
In order to do this method, let’s say that you have a pale ale and you want to dry hop your beer. Now, get your pellet hops and add some pale ale in your French Press—let them have some contact time.
You must press the plunger before you pour your beer; pressing the plunger will thrill some of the carbon dioxides, which will make the taste of your beer a little flattering—but because of this, you’ll be able to know what specific hop you should add next time your beer.
Keg Hopping
Transform your beer’s flavor with the Keg Hopping brewing technique. By using a strainer filled with hops, you’ll infuse your beer with a fresh, high-quality aroma. As the beer passes through the hopper, it will pick up the hop’s flavors, enhancing the taste of your beer.
However, beware: you must drink the beer within 2 to 3 weeks or it may lose its refreshing, good quality taste, turning grassy and veggie-like. So don’t waste your hard work; serve your beer promptly after production!
Also, make a lasting impression on your guests at special events and parties with the delicious results of Keg Hopping.
Different Types of “Hop”
As brewing technology advances, brewers are discovering new hop varieties all the time. So if you’re searching for the perfect hop for your next brewing project, look no further since we’ve created a comprehensive chart to help you find the ideal beer hop and aroma for your taste!
This chart is perfect for anyone looking to discover new hop varieties or find a suitable substitute for your current hops to improve the flavor of your beer.
By utilizing this chart list, you’ll be able to quickly and easily find the right hops for your brewing needs–giving you the confidence to create a delicious and unique beer every time!
1. Cascade
Cascade hops are a go-to for brewers! They bring a unique floral and citrusy aroma to the beer, and provide a medium bitterness level. You’ll often see Cascade hops in many different beer styles, as they help to enhance the overall taste and quality of the brew.
| Name of Hops | Scent | History |
| Ahtanum™ | Citrus, Earthy, and Floral | American |
| German Mandarina Bavaria | Fruity, Spicy, Citrus, Tropical | Germany |
| Palisade® | Grassy, Herbal, Stone Fruit | – |
2. Chinook
If you’re searching for a hop that’ll give your beer a big boost in flavor and aroma, then Chinook hops are the way to go! Because of their bold piney and spicy notes, and a bitterness level that’s medium to high, these hops are a great choice for any beer style.
They add a special touch to your brew making it stands out from the rest. So, why not give Chinook hops a try in your next beer brewing adventure!
| Name of Hops | Scent | History |
| French Triskel | Citrus, Floral, Fruity | French |
| Olympic | Spicy, Citrus | American |
| German Northern Brewer | Spicy, Floral, Herbal | German |
3. Nugget
Do you want to add a kick to your beer? Try these Nugget hops since they are known for their high alpha acid content, which brings a strong bitterness to your brew.
With its slightly spicy aroma, it’ll definitely add a unique touch to the flavor of your beer. So, go ahead and try Nugget hops in your next creation for a top-notch taste and quality.
| Name of Hops | Scent | History |
| Bravo | Floral, Fruity | – |
| Millennium | Herbal, Floral, Earthy | American |
| Mosaic™ | Grassy, Floral, Citrus | – |
Final Thoughts
So, in conclusion, dry hopping is a fantastic way to add amazing flavors to your beer! Trust us, it’s a game-changer and can transform your brew from just okay to amazing!
We’re very thrilled to have answered your question “What is Dry Hopping?” and we strongly suggest giving it a try so that you’ll be transported to a whole new world of beer. Cheers!
As a homebrewer, Michael would get frustrated about the lack of brewing information on the internet. After hundreds of gallons of spoilt batches, Micheal had enough. And he founded Unknown Brewing as a resource for homebrewers.