The Book of Hops

Introduction

All my friends are hopheads. For some, it s the spicy bitterness of a noble hop that has them fiending for more; others salivate with an uncontrollable Pavlovian response over the juicy fruit bouquet from new aroma hop varieties. For me, it s the sheer dankness of certain hops that entices my taste buds, bringing joy with each and every sip. As the most luscious ingredient in beer, hops offer a full spectrum of distinct aromas, delicious flavors, and soulful bitterness to the multitude of tasty beers we imbibe. Hop character is often the defining feature in some of the world s most celebrated beer styles.

Part science, part art, part magic, beer is one of the oldest and most consumed beverages on the planet. Since the days of our Neolithic ancestors, this strange brew has helped build civilizations and empires, revolutionized industries and cultures, and continues to transcend all borders to unite beer drinkers far and wide. The culture surrounding beer today grows increasingly complex with more breweries, ingredients, and styles seemingly introduced daily. The hundreds of styles available in the craft beer aisle can be a brave beer lover s dream or leave a curious newcomer overwhelmed and confused. How do we navigate the winding road to beer nirvana? Understand the difference between dryhopped IPAs and barrel-aged Saisons? In short, how do we pick which beer to drink?

You ve likely seen playful interpretations of the hop adorning many of these craft beer labels. Breweries are even using modern renditions of the hop cone as the main icon for the identity of their entire brand. It s time we look behind the lure of these labels to find real answers to all the questions we have about hops. What are they? Where do they come from? How do they impact all these different beer styles? Why do they taste so delicious? And, of course, which of these beautifully packaged beers is the best?

While no one can answer that last question, this

Dan DiSorbo, photographs by Erik Christiansen