Aramis Hops: The Secret Sauce for Stylish Suds From Alsace
Aramis hops might not be the life of the party, but they’re the suave character in the corner that gives your beer a French twist without trying too hard. Originating from the scenic views of the Alsace region.And courteously introduced to the world…
…by the Comptoir Agricole Breeding Program.
Aramis is like that friend you have who wears a beret unironically and pulls it off. Imagine sipping a beer that whispers sweet, spicy notes to your palate with a hint of citrus and herb aromas. It’s the subtle complexity that Aramis brings to the table.
If you’re brewing a beer and want it to have that ‘je ne sais quoi’, Aramis hops are your go-to. They’re especially at home in beer styles that lean into their French heritage, like Saisons and Bière de Gardes.
But don’t pigeonhole these hops.
They’re versatile enough to jazz up a Pale Ale or bring a certain ‘ooh la la’ to your Pilsner. Trust me, use Aramis hops, and your beer might just be mistaken for a tourist attraction. Bon voyage, my brewing comrades!
Key Takeaways
- Aramis hops bring a spicy, herbal flavor with a citrus twist.
- Best used in French-inspired beer styles like Saison and Bière de Garde.
- They add a special flair to Pilsners and Pale Ales, giving your brew a unique identity.
Aramis Hops Through the Looking Glass
Let’s hop right in and uncover the elegant charm of Aramis hops. From their French roots in Alsace’s lush fields to the essential oils that make beers sing. Imagine holding a magnifying glass over this hop, examining its ancestry.
And jotting down notes right from the farmers who grow it.
Tales from the Alsace Hopfields
Ah, Alsace. Picture the scene: rolling hills, vivid green hop bines, and the sun playing hide and seek with the clouds. This is where the aroma hop Aramis feels right at home. Aramis is like the multitalented cousin of Strisselspalt.
Think of it as Strisselspalt with a dash of attitude.
It carries a bit of that inherent grassy elegance but doesn’t shy away from flirting with a citrus twist. Best of all, when you toss Aramis into your pilsner, it’s like hitting the flavor jackpot.
A Century of Breeding: Aramis’ Ancestry
You’ve heard of family trees, right? Well, the Aramis hop has one that’s less tree, more enthralling vine. Crossed in 2002, this hop’s got the classic charm of Strisselspalt and the robustness of Whitbread Golding.
Like a hop handshake between French savoir-faire and English reliability. Aramis boasts higher oil content and a composed bitterness. Making it versatile for both bittering and finishing a wide array of beers.
Adventures in Agriculture: A Hop Farmer’s Diary
Imagine a diary filled with the daily musings of a hop farmer. Each entry details the dedication Aramis requires. It’s not the sort of hop that thrives on neglect. This bine demands attention.
But give it love and you’ll be rewarded…
…with hops that have enough essential oils and alpha acids to make your brew stand out. Think of New Belgium Hop Kitchen’s French Aramis IPA. It’s a beer that turns heads and tempts taste buds, much like a good plot twist in a novel.
Now, who thought reading about hops could be as exciting as finding the prize in a cereal box? Aramis hops sure have a story to tell, and it’s one that leads right to your glass. Cheers to the farmers, the breeders, and most of all, to you.
Who’ll bring it all together in your next brew adventure!
Main Characteristics
- Purpose: Aroma
- Aromas: Sweet Spicy, Herbal, Citrus
- Notes: Earthy, Grassy, Floral, Green Tea
- Alpha-acids: 6.5% – 8.5% [bitterness added through boiling]
- Beta-acids: 3.5% – 5.5% [bitterness added through maturation]
- Cohumulone: 20% – 28% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
- Hops oil breakdown: 1.2 – 1.6 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
- Myrcene: 38% – 41% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
- Humulene: 19% – 22% [noble, woody, spicy]
- Caryophyllene: 7% – 8% [spicy, piney, herbal]
- Farnesene: 2% – 4% [fresh, green, floral]
The Aromatic Adventures of Aramis Hops
Aramis hops are the life of the beer party, bringing a bouquet of aromas that’ll tickle your senses. Fasten your seatbelt, because we’re about to sniff our way through the aromatic labyrinth of this hop variety.
Unraveling the Aroma Profile
First off, let me guide your nose through the Aramaic labyrinth, where the walls are lined with the essence of Aramis hops. You’ll be greeted with a herby welcome mat that’s got subtle spices wafting around like an invisible cloak.
Let’s break it down in a sensory table for clarity:
Primary Scents | Secondary Notes |
Herbal | Earthy undertones |
Spicy | Floral like a crisp morning breeze |
Citrus | A hint of mystic green tea like |
These scents are like the secret handshake of the Aramis hop.
Not everyone knows it, but when you get it, you’re in the club.
Herbs and Spice and Everything Nice
Now imagine a spice bazaar in your glass. Each sip you take is a mini treasure hunt, where your tongue is the intrepid adventurer discovering herbaceous jewels. A bit of green tea, too. Got a love for the spicy kick at the end of a sip?
Aramis hops have got you covered with a spice rack’s worth of character:
- Sweet spicy whispers of Eastern markets
- Herbal notes that make you think of that one fancy garden you snuck into that one time
It’s like Aramis hops raided grandma’s cabinet and threw in every good-smelling herb they could find. Just for your beer.
The Fruity Side of Aramis
But wait, there’s more! Aramis hops don’t stop at herbs and spice. They invite fruity comrades like citrus to the party. Imagine a fruit salad if it went to finishing school, all elegant and refined, nothing too loud or too flashy.
- A subtle nod to citrus, like a secret handshake among fruits
It’s as if those fruits whispered their secrets into each hop cone before sending them off to your beer. Conspiring to give you a sip that’s fruitier than a Carmen Miranda hat.
Bitterness & Balance: The Science of Brewing with Aramis
Brewing with Aramis hops isn’t just a creative fling. It’s a science that hinges on teasing out just the right balance of bitterness. Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of what makes these hops tick.
A Deeper Dive into Alpha & Beta Acids
You know that bitter punch in beer that sometimes feels like it’s roundhouse kicking your taste buds? Well, thank the alpha acids for that. These compounds can be like the Mike Tysons of bitterness in hops.
Now, Aramis hops, your new brewing bestie, have dialed it down a notch. With a modest alpha acid content, they throw a gentle jab of bitterness without leaving your senses on the ropes.
Alpha Acids:
- Aramis: 6.5-8.5% – just enough to tickle, not tackle.
But let’s not forget the behind-the-scenes hero, beta acids. Think of them as the sitcom sidekick that never steals the show but always adds to the laughs. Beta acids in Aramis offer a smooth bitterness that builds up over time.
Like that one friend who’s easy-going even when the pizza delivery is late.
Beta Acids:
- Aramis: 3.5-5.5% – the cool-headed friend you need in a hop crisis.
The Oily Affair: Understanding Hop Oil Content
You may think oil is just for frying or making your bike chain less squeaky, but hop oils are the life of the beer flavor party. Aramis hops are quite the charmers here, with a hop oil blend that’s got a bit of everything.
Floral notes, a zesty citrus kick, and an herbal touch,
All of them whisper sweet nothings to your beer.
The Oil Party:
- Myrcene: Resinous and fruity vibes.
- Humulene & Caryophyllene: That herbal-spicy intrigue.
- Limonene & Pinene: Citrus punches and piney winks.
To Dry Hop or Not to Dry Hop?
So you’re pondering the eternal brewer’s question, should you shower your beer with hops outside of the boil? If you’re aiming for a fragrance that could win a beer pageant, then dry hopping with Aramis could make your brew smell like a…
…hop-filled field in the French countryside.
Dry Hop Techniques:
- Traditional: Toss those hops in the fermenter like you’re seasoning a gourmet meal.
- Cold Side Addition: Get fancy and add them post-fermentation for a fresh aroma burst.
Go ahead, give your beer that extra oomph of Aramis personality.
After all, no one’s ever complained about a brew being too charismatic.
The Brewmaster’s Guide to Aramis Hops
Let’s hop to it! You’re about to discover why Aramis hops are the secret sauce for certain beers and how to coax the best out of them in your brewing adventures.
Navigating the Flavor Profile
Aramis hops are like the jazz music of the hop world, unpredictable and smooth. They’ve got a spicy kick with a sweet undertone, and they’re not shy about showing off a bit of herbal and citrus flair. Think of Aramis as the hop that brings both.
The rhythm and the blues into your beer.
Without overwhelming your taste buds.
- Spice: Pepper, anyone? Aramis has got enough to compete with a five-star chili.
- Sweetness: Like the smile of your first crush, it’s subtle but unforgettable.
- Herbal/Citrus Notes: If a lemon and a sprig of thyme had a baby, it would be an Aramis hop cone.
Aramis and Its Best Beer Style Partners
Alright, listen up! Throw Aramis into the mix for styles that appreciate a hop with personality. These hops will sing in harmony with Belgian ales, play back-up for light lagers, and even waltz with a Witbier.
Bottom line: if your beer style enjoys a little Euro-flair, Aramis is your hop.
- Belgian Ales: Aramis just gets the complex character these styles are known for.
- Lagers/Pils: Light and crisp meets Aramis, and they live happily ever after.
- Witbiers: Wheaty and sweet, these beers will say ‘thank you’ to Aramis for that extra oomph.
Perfecting the Recipe: Tips and Tricks
When you’re rolling with Aramis, remember. You’re dealing with a hop that’s not just a one-trick pony. Want to get the most out of these suave cones? Add them late in the boil or dry-hop to preserve that head-turning aroma.
Think of them like a secret seasoning; just a pinch will do!
And pairing Aramis with other hops? That’s where the plot thickens. There are a few that play well with our Alsation hero. Try buddies like Cascade for a citrus twist or Brewer’s Gold for a dash of spice.
Aramis playing hide and seek? Sweat not. Why not give Willamette or Challenger hops a whirl? These bad boys can step in for Aramis and still bring that spicy, herbal goodness to your brew.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous…
…Ahtanum hops could be your new best friend, offering a similar profile with a twist. And if you’re feeling nostalgic for those classic European vibes, Hallertau or Tettnanger can step up to the plate and knock it out of the park.
- Late Additions: Save the best for last to keep those aromas intact.
- Dry Hopping: This is where Aramis struts its stuff without getting lost in the brew.
- Hop Pairings: Be bold – mix and match to find your beer’s best friend.
Concocting the Perfect Brew
Get ready to have some fun with Aramis hops, a French wonder that’ll make your brews sing with subtle flair and elegance. Whether you’re stirring up an ale, lager, or an adventurous IPA, these hops can turn your beer from good to “Oh la la!”
Mastering the Art of Aramis in Ales
So, you’re itching to play with Aramis in some ales? Smart move! These hops shine in beers where their unique aroma can take center stage. Start with a Belgian Ale or a sassily complex Saison.
Aim for a hopping rate of 1 to 1.5 ounces per 5 gallons for that…
…elegant, herbal charm without overpowering your precious brew.
- Pale Ale: Try a late addition of 0.75-1 oz to capture that refined Aramis aroma. And consider dry hopping 0.75 oz for a few days.
- Belgian Ale & Saison: Use 0.75-1 oz at the start of the boil, and add another 0.5 oz at the last 15 minutes to lock in the flavor.
Yeast is your wingman here, so choose one that complements rather than competes with the hops. Think harmony, not a wrestling match. Leave those heavyweight yeast at bay.
The Lager Logs and the Classics
Lagers and traditional styles love a good Aramis kick. For a classic Pilsner, Aramis hops can be your sole star or a great backup dancer to more prominent hops. That’s your perfect team player.
- Lager Hopping Schedule: A trifecta of Aramis magic. 1 ounce at 60 minutes, a half-ounce at 30, and another half-ounce at 5 minutes. It will get you that crisp finish with a French twist.
Remember, lagers are all about the finesse and clean finish. Let the hops do the talking, and keep your malt base simple. Don’t bulldoze over the nuance with a heavy hand.
Crafty Experimentation with IPAs and Beyond
Feeling bold? Amp up your IPA game with a dose of Aramis. Sure, this isn’t a bruiser like some other hops, but who said you can’t teach an old style new tricks?
- IPA Hopping Fun: Start with 2 ounces of Aramis for the bittering base. Then go wild with 3 ounces during the last 10 minutes of the boil. Dunk another 2 ounces as a dry hop and watch the magic happen.
Don’t forget, the India in IPA stands for ‘I Prefer Aramis’. Okay, not really, but with this versatile hop, you’ll make a brew that’s as cultured as a French sommelier and as fun as your last backyard BBQ. Cheers to that!
Style Name | Brewing Stage | Min of Oz per gallon | Max of Oz per gallon | Min of Oz per batch [5gal] | Max of Oz per batch [5gal] | Average of Oz per gallon |
Saison | Aroma | 0.02 | 0.33 | 0.12 | 1.67 | 0.16 |
Bittering | 0.04 | 0.27 | 0.21 | 1.33 | 0.14 | |
Dry Hop | 0.03 | 0.38 | 0.17 | 1.89 | 0.23 | |
Flavor | 0.05 | 0.2 | 0.23 | 1 | 0.11 | |
Whirlpool | 0.03 | 0.33 | 0.17 | 1.67 | 0.14 | |
Saison Total | 0.02 | 0.38 | 0.12 | 1.89 | 0.15 | |
American Pale Ale | Aroma | 0.03 | 0.37 | 0.17 | 1.84 | 0.13 |
Bittering | 0.06 | 0.38 | 0.31 | 1.91 | 0.18 | |
Dry Hop | 0.07 | 0.16 | 0.33 | 0.79 | 0.12 | |
Flavor | 0.03 | 0.25 | 0.17 | 1.27 | 0.12 | |
American Pale Ale Total | 0.03 | 0.38 | 0.17 | 1.91 | 0.14 | |
German Pilsner | Aroma | 0.09 | 0.31 | 0.44 | 1.54 | 0.2 |
Dry Hop | 0.09 | 0.55 | 0.45 | 2.73 | 0.23 | |
Flavor | 0.09 | 0.18 | 0.44 | 0.91 | 0.15 | |
Whirlpool | 0.18 | 0.23 | 0.91 | 1.15 | 0.21 | |
German Pilsner Total | 0.09 | 0.55 | 0.44 | 2.73 | 0.19 | |
Biere de Garde | Aroma | 0.07 | 0.27 | 0.33 | 1.36 | 0.15 |
Bittering | 0.05 | 0.29 | 0.25 | 1.43 | 0.14 | |
Flavor | 0.05 | 0.18 | 0.25 | 0.9 | 0.12 | |
Biere de Garde Total | 0.05 | 0.29 | 0.25 | 1.43 | 0.14 | |
New England IPA | Dry Hop | 0.1 | 0.19 | 0.51 | 0.95 | 0.13 |
Whirlpool | 0.06 | 0.21 | 0.32 | 1.05 | 0.13 | |
New England IPA Total | 0.06 | 0.21 | 0.32 | 1.05 | 0.13 |
Style Name | Brewing Stage | Min of Grams per liter | Max of Grams per liter | Min of Grams per batch [20ltr] | Max of Grams per batch [20ltr] | Average of Grams per liter |
Saison | Aroma | 0.18 | 2.5 | 3.64 | 49.93 | 1.24 |
Bittering | 0.31 | 2 | 6.24 | 39.94 | 1.01 | |
Dry Hop | 0.25 | 2.83 | 5 | 56.52 | 1.75 | |
Flavor | 0.34 | 1.5 | 6.9 | 29.96 | 0.82 | |
Whirlpool | 0.25 | 2.5 | 5 | 50 | 1.07 | |
Saison Total | 0.18 | 2.83 | 3.64 | 56.52 | 1.15 | |
American Pale Ale | Aroma | 0.25 | 2.75 | 5 | 55 | 1.02 |
Bittering | 0.47 | 2.86 | 9.43 | 57.14 | 1.37 | |
Dry Hop | 0.5 | 1.18 | 10 | 23.53 | 0.89 | |
Flavor | 0.25 | 1.9 | 5 | 38.1 | 0.9 | |
American Pale Ale Total | 0.25 | 2.86 | 5 | 57.14 | 1.07 | |
German Pilsner | Aroma | 0.65 | 2.31 | 13.04 | 46.15 | 1.51 |
Dry Hop | 0.68 | 4.08 | 13.62 | 81.7 | 1.7 | |
Flavor | 0.65 | 1.36 | 13.04 | 27.23 | 1.1 | |
Whirlpool | 1.36 | 1.73 | 27.23 | 34.57 | 1.55 | |
German Pilsner Total | 0.65 | 4.08 | 13.04 | 81.7 | 1.44 | |
Biere de Garde | Aroma | 0.5 | 2.04 | 9.99 | 40.85 | 1.1 |
Bittering | 0.38 | 2.14 | 7.55 | 42.8 | 1.08 | |
Flavor | 0.38 | 1.35 | 7.55 | 26.95 | 0.87 | |
Biere de Garde Total | 0.38 | 2.14 | 7.55 | 42.8 | 1.03 | |
New England IPA | Dry Hop | 0.77 | 1.43 | 15.38 | 28.57 | 0.99 |
Whirlpool | 0.47 | 1.58 | 9.46 | 31.53 | 0.97 | |
New England IPA Total | 0.47 | 1.58 | 9.46 | 31.53 | 0.97 |
*This data consists of hundreds of thousands of manually input recipes and, despite best efforts, they may contain errors leading to very high max amounts, or be someone’s attempt for experimental brew. You should consider this data more as an overview of how different ingredients were used for different styles to get inspiration. Please do not attempt to add up different lines as it’s all about proportions.
Wrapping Up the Aramis Hop Story
Aramis hops are like the James Bond of the hop world. Smooth, sophisticated, and always leaving a lasting impression. These hops hail from the charming Alsace region in France, so you know they’ve got that je ne sais quoi.
They’re a delightful cross between the traditional Strisselspalt and the oh-so-British Whitbread Golding. Making them a true international superstar, better believe it.
When you throw Aramis into your brew, you’re inviting a party of flavors.
Imagine a dance floor where sweet citrus, spicy herbs, and a hint of floral elegance are grooving together. It’s like a flavor fiesta in your mouth! Whether you’re crafting a pale ale, a crisp lager, or even an IPA, Aramis is your go-to wingman. Always ready to elevate your beer game.
But let’s not get too serious here. Brewing with Aramis is like adding a sprinkle of magic dust to your potion. It’s got that perfect balance of old-world charm and new-world zing. So, next time you’re pondering which hop to choose, remember our suave friend Aramis.
It’s not just a hop; it’s an Alsation experience.
Cheers to making your brew as legendary as this fabulous hop! 🍻
Now, go forth and brew something amazing, my friend.
And don’t forget to save me a pint!
Damian
A lifelong learner, hop enthusiast and a lover of the state of extreme exhaustion.
Finance Analyst in the Investment Bank and co-founder of hopsmatcher.com