Simcoe Hops: Picking the Perfect Beer Style for This Punchy Plant

Reading Time: around 15 min

Simcoe hops are like Chuck Norris of hops. Versatile, reliable, and always ready for action. Or in this case, for brewing. You’ve probably tasted its influence in some of your favorite beers without even realizing it.

This hop variety has become a craft brewing superstar, so let’s get to know Simcoe a little better, shall we? Whether you’re a homebrewer or simply a beer aficionado…

…understanding Simcoe’s charms will up your beer banter game.

Now, if you’re dreaming of brewing an IPA that’ll make hop heads swoon, Simcoe should be on your radar. Its complex profile includes tropical, pine and juicy citrus notes, with a touch of berry to keep things interesting.

Like a forest party on your palate.

Plus, with its high alpha acid content, it adds a clean, crisp bitterness that can take a beer from good to ‘can-I-have-another-pint’ great. It’s no wonder that beer styles such as American Pale Ales, IPAs, and Double IPAs sing when Simcoe takes the stage.

Key Takeaways

Simcoe hops bring versatile flavors, from tropical and citrus to hints of berry.
High alpha acid content makes Simcoe great for bittering in IPAs and Pale Ales.
Simcoe’s complexity is perfect for hop-forward beer styles.

The Origins and Characteristics of Simcoe Hops

Before you dive into your next home brew session, let’s get chummy with Simcoe hops.

Picture them as the cool new hops on the block that everyone wants at their beer party.

A Brief History

Born in 2000, Simcoe hops are the zesty brainchild of Yakima Chief Ranches and the Select Botanicals Group. This variety isn’t the ancient mystic hops your ancestors whispered about.

They’re more like the tech-savvy millennial of the hops family.

Engineered to make your beer buzz with flavor.

Main Characteristics

Purpose: Dual / Universal
Aromas: Tropical, Citrus, Passion fruit, Grapefruit, Berries
Notes: Pine, Earthy, Spicy, Herbal, Apricot
Alpha-acids: 10.0% – 16.0% [bitterness added through boiling]
Beta-acids: 3.0% – 5.5% [bitterness added through maturation]
Cohumulone: 15% – 21% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
Hops oil breakdown: 1.0 – 3.2 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
- Myrcene: 50% – 65% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
- Humulene: 10% – 22% [noble, woody, spicy]
- Caryophyllene: 6% – 14% [spicy, piney, herbal]
- Farnesene: 0% – 1% [fresh, green, floral]

Alpha Acid Adventures

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Simcoe hops are known for their high alpha acid content between 10% – 16%. Which is your ticket to Bitterville with a smooth ride.

You can thank these alpha acids for that bold, face-puckering hit that turns a bland brew into a tongue-tastic sensation. And if that wasn’t enough, beta acids sit comfortably at about 3.0% – 5.5%, helping to add complexity to your concoction.

A Scent Like No Other

Forget the common citrus bomb. That’s so 2010.

Simcoe hops present you with a cornucopia of aromas to treat your nostrils. Imagine a symphony of pine, berry, tropical, and passion fruit slash grapefruit playing in your beer. With every sip, you unearth different layers.

Like digging for hidden treasures in your grandma’s garden.

If your grandma was a legendary beer wizard, that is. With Simcoe’s unique flavor profile, your beer will stand out in a world where the same old aromas are old news.

The Science of Simcoe: Understanding Acids and Oils

Let’s get up close and personal with Simcoe hops.

Where the real magic in your beer begins. With acids and oils that pack a punch.

Breaking Down the Alpha-Beta Ratio

First things first, your Simcoe hops are not shy about their alpha acid content, rocking a range between 10% and 16%. Think of alpha acids as the hop’s bouncers, giving your beer that bitterness backbone.

It’s where the hoppy bite in your IPA flexes its muscles!

Now, let’s peek at the beta side of things. Beta acids usually chill on the lower end, around 3% and 5.5%. But don’t let those numbers fool you; they’re in for the long haul, contributing to bitterness during aging.

Like a fine wine, but it’s beer, and you’re hipper for it.

Alpha Acid Content: 10 – 16%
Beta Acid Content: 3 – 5.5%

Low cohumulone levels in Simcoe mean smoother bitterness.

No throat karate chops here.

Total Oils and Aromatics: Simcoe’s Secret Sauces

Simcoe has a festive cocktail of oils that really turn the party up in your pint. Total oils clock in at about 1 – 3%, bringing more layers to the flavor fiesta than your seven-layer dip. Myrcene, humulene, caryophyllene.

Words that sound like a spice cabinet from space, but trust me.

They’re what make your brew smell like a pine forest wrapped in grapefruit peel.

Here’s where things get scrumptiously sciency:

Total Oils: 1 – 3%, that’s 1 – 3 mL per 100 grams. Juicy.
Myrcene: It’s the leading lady of the bunch, offering that fruity and resinous aroma.
Linalool: This little number adds a floral and citrus zing – think of it as the wingman to myrcene.

Combine these with Simcoe’s unique profile, and you’ve got the secret sauce for sublime suds. Sweet, earthy, and a bit fruity. It’s like having a dessert in the woods. So go ahead, brew away and watch your pals wonder…

…why your beer tastes like a hike in the happiest forest?

Matching Simcoe to Beer Styles

If you’re looking to hop to it with Simcoe, knowing which beer styles to pair with these bad boys can be a game-changer.

Simcoe’s Best Friends: IPAs and Pale Ales

Welcome to the passion fruit and berry-filled world of American hop heaven where Simcoe hops are practically married to IPAs and Pale Ales. Imagine your beer engulfed in a tropically storm of fruity flavors that has all your tastebuds throwing a luau.

That’s what chucking Simcoe into your next IPA or APA brew could do.

American Pale Ale: Perfect for a more laid-back vibe, Simcoe will nudge in that fresh piney kick without overwhelming the party.
India Pale Ale (IPA): Here, Simcoe shines like a hoppy beacon, bringing in that bold, resinous oomph that screams classic IPA.
Double IPA: Buckle up! If your taste buds are thrill-seekers, then a heavy-handed pitch of Simcoe in a Double IPA will zoom them straight to flavor town.

Beyond Ales: Exploring Lagers and Stouts

You might think Simcoe is just an Ale’s best pal, but let me tell you, it’s a versatile creature. Dabble with it in a Lager or Stout, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Lagers: Who said lagers have to be dull? A pinch of Simcoe can inject a crisp, fruity jive without hijacking the smooth lager train.
Stouts: Sure, you’re now scratching your head. But trust me, a hint of Simcoe can add an intriguing layer of apricot to that malt blanket, creating a fascinating taste dichotomy.

Remember, whether you’re looking for that tangy fruit fest or a subtle berry whisper, Simcoe hops can elevate your brew like the life of the party without stealing the spotlight.

Brewing With Simcoe: Techniques and Tips

Before you dive in and start tossing hops into your brew like a salad, let’s have a chat about how to nail brewing with Simcoe. The hop that’s smoother than a jazz solo on a Saturday night.

Utilizing Simcoe in the Brewing Process

Simcoe’s like that friend who’s good at everything.

Totally awesome and never disappoints.

Struggling with when to add it? Fear not. Simcoe can enter the stage at any point in your brewing encore. If you’re gunning for bitterness, toss Simcoe in early; think of it as the bassline that sets the groove for your beer.

For aroma, wait until the final curtain call and add it during the whirlpool or as a dry hop. This isn’t just a hop, it’s your ticket to a tasty, hop-forward performance.

Early additions: Bitterness with smooth vibes
Whirlpool/Dry-hop: Aromatic jazz that lingers

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
American IPA	Aroma	–	1.6	–	8	0.16
	Bittering	0.01	1.78	0.03	8.89	0.14
	Dry Hop	0.01	1.67	0.03	8.35	0.25
	First Wort	0.02	0.5	0.1	2.5	0.11
	Flavor	0.01	0.76	0.04	3.81	0.12
	Hop Stand	0.04	0.49	0.21	2.46	0.18
	Hopback	0.01	0.67	0.06	3.37	0.23
	Mash	0.03	0.5	0.16	2.5	0.11
	Whirlpool	–	2.05	0.01	10.27	0.21
American IPA Total		–	2.05	–	10.27	0.18
American Pale Ale	Aroma	–	0.67	0.01	3.34	0.13
	Bittering	–	0.58	–	2.9	0.09
	Dry Hop	0.02	1.2	0.09	6	0.23
	First Wort	0.01	0.27	0.03	1.34	0.08
	Flavor	0.01	0.53	0.03	2.67	0.1
	Hop Stand	0.08	0.74	0.4	3.71	0.26
	Hopback	0.02	0.32	0.1	1.6	0.14
	Mash	0.01	0.5	0.04	2.5	0.12
	Whirlpool	0.01	0.87	0.03	4.35	0.17
American Pale Ale Total		–	1.2	–	6	0.15
New England IPA	Aroma	–	0.83	0.02	4.17	0.18
	Bittering	0.01	1.27	0.05	6.36	0.12
	Dry Hop	0.02	1.6	0.11	8	0.26
	First Wort	0.02	0.27	0.08	1.36	0.05
	Flavor	0.02	1.34	0.09	6.68	0.14
	Hop Stand	0.02	0.53	0.1	2.67	0.2
	Hopback	0.05	1.2	0.23	6	0.31
	Mash	0.06	0.67	0.32	3.33	0.25
	Whirlpool	0.02	1.16	0.09	5.81	0.2
New England IPA Total		–	1.6	0.02	8	0.21
Imperial IPA	Aroma	–	1.27	0.02	6.36	0.22
	Bittering	0.01	0.8	0.03	4	0.15
	Dry Hop	0.02	2.33	0.09	11.67	0.22
	First Wort	0.02	0.38	0.08	1.91	0.16
	Flavor	0.01	0.62	0.03	3.12	0.16
	Hop Stand	0.09	0.36	0.45	1.82	0.19
	Hopback	0.07	0.4	0.36	2	0.2
	Mash	0.07	0.33	0.37	1.67	0.2
	Whirlpool	0.03	0.95	0.17	4.77	0.22
Imperial IPA Total		–	2.33	0.02	11.67	0.2
Double IPA	Aroma	–	1	0.02	5	0.22
	Bittering	0.01	0.91	0.03	4.55	0.16
	Dry Hop	0.03	1.36	0.16	6.82	0.25
	First Wort	0.05	0.36	0.23	1.82	0.14
	Flavor	0.01	0.55	0.04	2.73	0.15
	Hop Stand	0.13	0.67	0.67	3.34	0.25
	Hopback	0.08	0.55	0.42	2.75	0.34
	Mash	0.05	0.36	0.24	1.82	0.2
	Whirlpool	0.02	0.89	0.09	4.45	0.24
Double IPA Total		–	1.36	0.02	6.82	0.21

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
American IPA	Aroma	–	11.98	0.09	239.65	1.23
	Bittering	0.05	13.31	0.95	266.28	1.02
	Dry Hop	0.05	12.5	0.95	250	1.84
	First Wort	0.15	3.74	3.07	74.89	0.85
	Flavor	0.06	5.71	1.25	114.12	0.91
	Hop Stand	0.31	3.69	6.24	73.75	1.34
	Hopback	0.08	5.05	1.66	100.91	1.69
	Mash	0.24	3.74	4.76	74.89	0.81
	Whirlpool	0.02	15.38	0.44	307.69	1.54
American IPA Total		–	15.38	0.09	307.69	1.36
American Pale Ale	Aroma	0.02	5	0.31	100	1.01
	Bittering	–	4.35	0.08	86.96	0.71
	Dry Hop	0.13	8.99	2.61	179.74	1.7
	First Wort	0.04	2	0.87	40	0.6
	Flavor	0.04	3.99	0.87	79.88	0.72
	Hop Stand	0.6	5.56	12	111.11	1.94
	Hopback	0.14	2.4	2.88	48	1.05
	Mash	0.06	3.74	1.2	74.89	0.87
	Whirlpool	0.05	6.52	0.91	130.43	1.25
American Pale Ale Total		–	8.99	0.08	179.74	1.1
New England IPA	Aroma	0.02	6.24	0.48	124.77	1.35
	Bittering	0.07	9.53	1.5	190.63	0.92
	Dry Hop	0.16	11.98	3.17	239.65	1.95
	First Wort	0.13	2.04	2.5	40.85	0.39
	Flavor	0.13	10	2.67	200	1.02
	Hop Stand	0.15	4	3	80	1.47
	Hopback	0.34	8.99	6.81	179.74	2.29
	Mash	0.48	4.99	9.66	99.86	1.84
	Whirlpool	0.14	8.7	2.83	173.91	1.48
New England IPA Total		0.02	11.98	0.48	239.65	1.58
Imperial IPA	Aroma	0.02	9.53	0.5	190.63	1.67
	Bittering	0.05	5.99	1	119.83	1.1
	Dry Hop	0.14	17.47	2.83	349.49	1.67
	First Wort	0.11	2.86	2.27	57.29	1.17
	Flavor	0.04	4.67	0.75	93.33	1.17
	Hop Stand	0.67	2.72	13.37	54.47	1.42
	Hopback	0.53	3	10.7	59.91	1.53
	Mash	0.56	2.5	11.11	49.93	1.47
	Whirlpool	0.25	7.14	5	142.86	1.62
Imperial IPA Total		0.02	17.47	0.5	349.49	1.5
Double IPA	Aroma	0.02	7.49	0.48	149.78	1.65
	Bittering	0.05	6.81	0.95	136.17	1.24
	Dry Hop	0.24	10.21	4.81	204.25	1.89
	First Wort	0.34	2.72	6.81	54.47	1.03
	Flavor	0.06	4.08	1.13	81.7	1.12
	Hop Stand	1	5	20	100	1.91
	Hopback	0.62	4.12	12.48	82.35	2.57
	Mash	0.36	2.72	7.11	54.47	1.47
	Whirlpool	0.14	6.67	2.72	133.33	1.83
Double IPA Total		0.02	10.21	0.48	204.25	1.61

*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.

The Role of Simcoe in Flavor and Aroma

Listen up, because Simcoe’s got an aroma profile that’s more complex than your relationship status. It packs a punch with a medley of myrcene, humulene, caryophyllene, and a whisper of farnesene.

If those terms sound like a foreign language…

…just think: grapefruit, fruity, and a little piney. Like a walk in the woods while snacking on fruits. Don’t just take my word for it, though. Use Simcoe and your beer might just become the most interesting conversation starter at your next backyard shindig.

Myrcene: Citrus, Fruity & Resin Symphony
Humulene & Caryophyllene: Piney and Spicy Backbone
Farnesene: That flirtatious hint of mystery

Homebrewing Hilarity with Simcoe

Let’s face it. Homebrewing can have its moments of comedy. But adding Simcoe to your act can turn any potential flop into a standing ovation. Dry-hopping with this hop is like inviting a celebrity to your party.

It’ll make your pale ales, IPAs, and pretty much everything else stand out. The intense tropical and berry notes it brings to the table will have your friends wondering if you’ve got a hop whisperer on speed dial.

Consider Simcoe your secret ingredient.

The one that makes homebrewing as fun as a game of hopscotch with actual hops.

Dry-hop: Your front-row ticket to Aromatic Alley
Beer styles: Pale Ale to IPA, with a chance of wild ales. Keep ’em guessing!

Hopping Stages and Amounts

Simcoe, the hop that’s as bold and mysterious as a superhero with a secret identity. This bad boy packs a punch with piney, berry, and fruity notes that could serenade your senses like a smooth-talking saxophonist in a jazz club.

First up, we’re diving into the hoppy haven of an American IPA.

This beer is as adventurous as wearing socks with sandals and getting away with it. Simcoe is the star of the show, the headliner, the main attraction. Let’s go big and bold. Toss in 2 ounces at the 60-minute mark to lay down a bitterness.

As solid as your alibi on poker night.

But wait – there’s more! At the 15-minute mark, let’s add another ounce. This is the flavor encore, the crowd going wild, the hoppy hug that says, “I’ve got you, pal.” It’s like adding a high-five to every sip.

And because we love a good plot twist, let’s go for a grand finale with a dry-hop session. Another 2 ounces post-fermentation will infuse your IPA with an aroma that’s as enchanting as finding a twenty in your old jeans.

It’s the secret handshake between you and your beer.

Switching gears, let’s waltz over to the smooth and sultry world of the American Amber Ale. This brew’s as comforting as your favorite sweater and as rich as your eccentric uncle who travels the world in a hot air balloon.

For the Amber Ale, Simcoe plays a supporting role.

A best friend that’s there when you need it. Start with a polite half-ounce at the beginning of the boil. It’s a gentle nod, a respectful tip of the hat to the malty backbone of this classic style.

As the boil winds down, with 10 minutes left, let’s drop in another quarter-ounce for a subtle whisper of flavor. It’s the secret ingredient, the wink across the room that adds a little intrigue to your malty melody.

Hop Varieties and Substitutes for Simcoe

Simcoe hops have rocked the beer world with a one-two punch of tantalizing aromas and robust bitterness. When you’re brewing and hit a roadblock because Simcoe’s gone MIA, you’ve got subs ready to pinch-hit.

Family Ties: Simcoe’s Hop Relatives

Simcoe: The head honcho, supreme in both alpha acids.

Boasting a range from 10%-16% and killer flavor.

But what if Simcoe was at a family reunion?

The cousins would be aromatics like Cascade with its grapefruit vibe. And Amarillo, flashing notes of orange. Chinook might be the brooding type, all pine and spice. While Citra and Mosaic bring a tropical fruit salad to the party.

In Case of Emergency: Simcoe Substitutes

When Simcoe hops skip town, don’t break a sweat. Use this cheat sheet:

Cascade: Like Simcoe, Cascade hops wear the dual-purpose hat, ready to be your beer’s best friend with citrus flair.
Amarillo: Grab this if you’re after a citrusy, floral fix with a side of sweet.
Citra: Need that tropical punch? Citra’s got your back.
Mosaic: Complex and layered, just like Simcoe but turned up to eleven with berries and herbs.
Chinook: If you’re craving for pine and spice, Chinook hops are your huckleberry.
Magnum: Strong and silent, Magnum hops will belt out bitterness without stealing the aromatic show.

Just remember, while these subs can step up to the plate, they bring their own party tricks. So don’t expect a carbon copy of Simcoe. Expect a remix that might just score you a brewing encore.

Cultivating Craft: How Simcoe Shapes Craft Brewing

Simcoe is not your average hop.

It’s the cool cat that jazzed up the craft beer scene and gave homebrewing an edge.

The Impact of Simcoe on Craft Beer Styles

Simcoe hops have a versatile profile that marries well with the complex flavors of craft beer. Especially IPAs and their bolder relatives, double IPAs. They bring to the table a flavor profile of pine, grapefruit, and berry notes that adds layers upon layers of aroma to your brew.

It’s like conducting an orchestra where every note hits the right spot, creating a symphony in your pint glass. For those diving into the depths of homebrewing, Simcoe allows you to go where no brew has gone before.

Into the realm of inventive, palate-pleasing masterpieces.

Why Craft Brewers Adore Simcoe

Let’s be real, craft brewers are all about that depth and complexity, and Simcoe is their muse. Its high alpha acid content is a game-changer. Delivering a smooth bitterness without overpowering the beer’s overall taste.

Imagine you’re painting a hoppy masterpiece. Simcoe is the shade that adds depth without turning your canvas into a bitter mess. And let’s not overlook the low cohumulone levels, which keep your brew as chill as a laid-back Sunday afternoon.

Plus, the fact that it can play nice with other hop varieties?

That’s like having a best bud that gets along with all your other pals.

Good vibes only, right?

So, grab a fistful of Simcoe hops, throw it in the mix, and watch the magic happen. It’s the passport to flavor town that never expires. Cheers to you, brewmaster!

Fusion and Evolution: The Future of Simcoe in Brewing

Hop aboard the flavor train, my friend, because when it comes to Simcoe hops, you’re in for a future that’s as bright as a passion fruit grove under the midday sun.

Let’s peek into the hoppy horizon together, shall we?

Predicting Trends: The Simcoe Crystal Ball

You know how everyone’s aunt claims she can predict the future with her dusty old crystal ball? Well, yours truly has a hop cone that does the trick. Simcoe hops, with their luscious mix of fruity and piney notes, are like the popular kids in high school.

Everyone wants to hang out with them. The trend train is chugging along, and let me tell you, it’s headed straight for the land of passion fruit and evergreen aromas. In the United States, brewers are creatively using Simcoe…

…in ways that make the founding fathers of beer weep with joy.

Innovations: Look out for brews that amplify Simcoe’s aromatic qualities. Pitting them against (or teaming them with) exotic partners. Imagine a dash of spicy rye or a hint of tart cherry.
Trends: They’re making waves bigger than a surfer’s dream. With a love for all things citrus notes, you’ll soon be sipping on beers that make your taste buds feel like they’re on a tropical vacation.

Crafting the Next Big Hit: Experimental Brews

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into the sandbox of brewing.

Your next big hit could be a swig away, thanks to the wonder that is Simcoe hops.

Experimental Brews: Citrusy IPA? Sure. Double IPA with a woody twist? You got it. How about a Lager that boogies with Simcoe’s bitter symphony? Oh, the places you’ll brew!
United States: Keep your eyes on those crafty American brewers.They’re the pioneers riding the Simcoe wave into the future. Pushing this hop variety into beers that’ll make your porch the new ‘it’ spot.

Beer Type	Simcoe Role
Pale Ale	Main attraction
IPA	Apricot and berry star
Double IPA	Bitterness booster

So, prepare your pint glasses. Because the fusion of Simcoe’s charm with brewing innovation is guaranteed to bring about the kinds of beers that stories (and hangovers) are made of.

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