Origin of the Simcoe Hop
Simcoe hops were developed by Yakima Chief Ranches and released in 2000. This dual-purpose hop has become highly regarded in the brewing community for its versatility and unique profile. Originating from the Pacific Northwest, particularly the Yakima Valley in Washington State, Simcoe was bred for its complex aroma, high alpha acid content, and disease resistance. It has quickly become a staple for both commercial and homebrewers looking for a hop that can deliver both bitterness and a distinct aroma.
Characteristics of Simcoe Hop
Simcoe hops are celebrated for their robust and multi-dimensional aroma and flavor profile. They impart a mix of earthy, fruity, and herbal notes, which can vary based on the brewing conditions and how the hops are used. The primary aroma descriptors include:
- Aroma: Pine, earth, citrus, berry, and apricot.
- Flavor: A balance of fruity and earthy tones, featuring berry, citrus, and a subtle piney bitterness that complements a variety of beer styles.
Simcoe hops provide a complex yet balanced character that is both pungent and nuanced, making them a favorite among brewers for creating intricate flavor profiles.
Alpha and Beta Acid Content, and Oil Composition
- Alpha Acids %: 12.0 – 14.0
- Beta Acids %: 4.0 – 5.0
- Total Oil mL/100g: 2.0 – 2.5
- B-Pinene % of total oils: 0.5 – 0.8
- Myrcene % of total oils: 45.0 – 50.0
- Linalool % of total oils: 0.5 – 0.8
- Caryophyllene % of total oils: 6.0 – 8.0
- Farnesene % of total oils: <1.0
- Humulene % of total oils: 15.0 – 18.0
- Geraniol % of total oils: 0.2 – 0.4
- Oil other – % of total oils: 21.0 – 32.3
Beer Styles and Usage
Simcoe hops are versatile and can be used in a wide variety of beer styles. Their ability to contribute both bitterness and complex aroma makes them suitable for:
- IPAs (India Pale Ales): Often used for both bittering and aroma, providing the pine and citrus notes essential to the style.
- Pale Ales: Adds a distinctive fruity and herbal character.
- Porters and Stouts: Enhances the earthy and piney undertones, balancing the roasted malt flavors.
- American Ales: Contributes to the fruity and resinous profile common in these beers.
Simcoe is typically added at various stages of the brewing process, including early for bitterness and late or dry-hopped for aroma, making it a truly multifaceted hop.
Conclusion
Simcoe hops, hailing from the Yakima Valley, are a cornerstone in the brewing world due to their dynamic aroma and flavor profile. With alpha acids averaging around 13.0%, they provide a potent bitterness balanced by the rich, fruity, and earthy flavors that are essential to many modern beer styles. The oil composition, highlighted by significant myrcene and humulene content, underscores their versatility. These attributes make Simcoe an excellent choice for a range of beer styles, from IPAs and Pale Ales to more robust Porters and Stouts. Their unique profile and balanced character ensure that Simcoe hops will remain a favorite among brewers seeking to craft complex and flavorful beers.
