Origin of Amarillo Hops
Amarillo hops are a relatively new variety in the world of brewing. They were discovered by accident in 1990 by Virgil Gamache Farms in Washington State, USA. Amarillo hops are a patented hop variety, meaning their growth and distribution are carefully controlled to maintain their unique characteristics. The name “Amarillo” is Spanish for “yellow,” which is a nod to the vibrant yellow color of the mature cones.
Characteristics of Amarillo Hops
Amarillo hops have gained popularity in recent years due to their distinct aroma and flavor profile. They are known for their fruity, citrusy, and floral notes, which lend themselves well to various beer styles. The aroma and flavor profile of Amarillo hops include:
- Grapefruit
- Orange
- Lemon
- Melon
- Apricot
- Peach
Alpha and Beta Acid Content and Oil Composition
Amarillo hops have a moderate-to-high alpha acid content and a low-to-moderate beta acid content. The typical acid and oil composition for Amarillo hops are as follows:
- Alpha Acids %: 8-11%
- Beta Acids %: 6-7%
- Total Oil mL/100g: 1.5-1.9 mL/100g
The specific oil composition of Amarillo hops is:
- B-Pinene % of total oils: 0.4-0.8%
- Myrcene % of total oils: 40-50%
- Linalool % of total oils: 0.5-0.8%
- Caryophyllene % of total oils: 9-11%
- Farnesene % of total oils: 2-4%
- Humulene % of total oils: 18-22%
- Geraniol % of total oils: 0.1-0.4%
- Oil other – % of total oils: 5-12%
Please note that these percentages will add up to 100% of the total oils.
Beer Styles and Usage
Amarillo hops are versatile and can be used in a variety of beer styles. They are particularly popular in American-style Pale Ales, India Pale Ales (IPAs), and Double IPAs due to their fruity, citrusy, and floral characteristics. They can be used for both bittering and aroma additions, making them a popular choice among homebrewers and professional brewers alike.
Conclusion
Amarillo hops are a unique and flavorful addition to the world of brewing, originating from Washington State, USA. Their fruity, citrusy, and floral notes make them a popular choice for a range of beer styles, particularly American-style Pale Ales and IPAs. With moderate-to-high alpha acid content and a diverse oil composition, Amarillo hops offer a distinctive aroma and flavor profile that can enhance the overall character of a beer. Their versatility in both bittering and aroma additions has made them a favorite among homebrewers and professional brewers alike.
