This traditional German bittering hop was first bred at Wye College from a cross between Brewer’s Gold and Canterbury Golding. Released in the 1940s, this varietal is now available in regional spin-offs, including a very similar U.S. grown Northern Brewer. It is currently used as a true dual purpose hop, offering both well-rounded bitterness and a full, woodsy aroma of pine, herbs and mint.

The alpha acid range is generally between 8% to 10%, and can be used to bitter most ales as well as some lagers. If you need a to swap out Northern Brewer pellet or whole hops, try using Chinook, Magnum, or Galena. Give Northern Brewer a try by grabbing a bottle of just about any variety from Anchor Steam Brewing Co.