Single Hop with Citra

 Recently I contributed to a discussion group site and thought about revisiting an article I did last year called Single-Hopped Beers . The question I posed to the group was on what might be the next direction for the IPA. As the opinions began to flow the topic morphed into the area of  "single-hopping" and the use of Citra hops. So for those of you who may not be familiar with this variety of hop here's a wee bit'o info fer ya!

 Citra Hops are one of the most versatile hop varieties. United States in origin and relativity new, they were introduced to the market in 2008. Citra is great example of a hop which covers a lot the profile bases from Aroma to Bittering. Citra is considered a "hybrid" as it was bred from a number of different hop varieties. Those being Hallertauer Mittelfrüh, East Kent Golding, Bavarian, Brewers Gold and U.S. Tettnanger. It's Alpha Acid content is around 10-12% with the aroma and flavor described as citrus, peach, grapefruit, apricot or passion fruit. Citra was also the feature hop when Sierra Nevada created their Torpedo Extra IPA. Examples of some single hop beers utilizing Citra are Mikkeller Citra IPA, Nøgne Citra IPA, Liberty Citra IPA, and Liberty West Coast Blond Citra.

 A vast majority of brewers started out blending hops for their recipes. So although simplistic in nature, the "single hop" philosophy is a great way for the novice drinker to identify each aspect of a hops natural character and the flavor it imparts into the beer. For beer geeks like us, single hop beers are an interesting way for brewers to put their own spin to a beer based on one common ingredient.

Cheers!

For more hop information visit: USA Hops