Wet Hops

What do Three Floyds Broo Doo, Sierra Nevada Estate and Harpoon Glacier Harvest Ale have in common? They are all brewed with wet hops and you'll be able to give them a try at tonight's HOPS meeting.

Wet hopping is the use of freshly picked hops during the brew. Hops are picked and go into the brew kettle the same day. They can be used at any point from mash hop to dry/wet hopping (wet/dry hopping?) Generally wet hops are added closer to the end of boil to showcase their fresh flavor and aromatic qualities. They are used less frequently for the bittering addition because the Alpha Acid content is unknown, making for unpredictable IBU's in the finished beer.

Wet hopped ales are only available seasonally after the late summer/fall hop harvest. They should be enjoyed very young, as the hop flavors and aromas fade over time. Try some tonight!