Strisselspalt Hops: A Hoppy Love Story for Fancy Brewers

Reading Time: around 10 min

Want to add a touch of French flair to your brew? Look no further than Strisselspalt hops. These delicate little cones hail from the Alsace region of France, bringing a bit of ooh-la-la to your beer.

Strisselspalt hops are perfect for Amber Ales, Blonde Ales, Bocks, Golden Ales, Pilsners, and Saisons. You’ll love the subtle, noble spicy aroma with hints of citrus and flowers. It’s like a walk through a French garden.

Minus the snooty gardener giving you the stink eye.

Don’t let the fancy name fool you – these hops are as versatile as a Swiss Army knife. They’ll add a gentle bitterness to your brew without overpowering the other flavors. So go ahead, sprinkle some Strisselspalt magic into your next batch…

…and watch your beer transform into a true Parisian superstar.

Key Takeaways

Strisselspalt hops originate from France’s Alsace region and offer a noble aroma
They excel in various beer styles including Amber Ales, Blonde Ales, and Saisons
These versatile hops provide gentle bitterness without dominating other flavors

The Birthplace of Strisselspalt: A Hop’s Odyssey

Strisselspalt hops have a story as rich as the beers they flavor.

These little green cones hail from a place where wine usually steals the show.

Terroir: It’s Not Just for Grapes!

You might think terroir is just wine-snob talk, but Strisselspalt hops are all about that Alsace life. Picture rolling hills, misty mornings, and soil so good you could eat it (but don’t). This unique spot near Strasbourg gives these hops their je ne sais quoi.

The climate’s like Goldilocks’ porridge – just right. Not too hot, not too cold, with enough rain to keep things interesting. It’s this perfect storm of conditions that makes Strisselspalt hops the cool kids of the hop world.

History and Heritage: Hops with a French Accent

Strisselspalt hops aren’t some newfangled creation. These bad boys have been around the block. Way back in 822, French monks were already hip to hops in their brews.

Talk about early adopters!

Fast forward to the 1800s, and Alsace became hop central. Strisselspalt emerged as the star of the show. It’s like the Brad Pitt of hops – old school, but still got it.

Despite being a bit of a diva (low yields, anyone?), Strisselspalt keeps its fan base. French brewers can’t get enough of its subtle, spicy-floral charm. It’s the secret ingredient that makes your saison say “ooh la la!”

Aromatically Speaking: The Sniff Test

Get ready to put your nose to work!

Strisselspalt hops have a unique scent that’ll make your nostrils dance with joy.

Main Characteristics

Purpose: Aroma
Aromas: Noble, Spicy, Floral, Herbal
Notes: Fruity, Citrus
Alpha-acids: 1.8% – 4.0% [bitterness added through boiling]
Beta-acids: 3.0% – 6.0% [bitterness added through maturation]
Cohumulone: 20% – 27% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
Hops oil breakdown: 0.6 – 0.9 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
- Myrcene: 35% – 52% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
- Humulene: 12% – 25% [noble, woody, spicy]
- Caryophyllene: 8% – 10% [spicy, piney, herbal]
- Farnesene: 0% – 1% [fresh, green, floral]

Strisselspalt vs. Other Hop Kids on the Block

You might think all hops smell the same, but Strisselspalt is that fancy kid in the class. It’s got a delicate aroma that’ll make you feel fancy. Think of it as the perfume counter at a high-end department store, but for beer.

Strisselspalt brings a spicy and floral bouquet to the party.

It’s like your grandma’s garden met a spice rack and had a baby. You’ll catch whiffs of black currant and herbal notes too. It’s not as in-your-face as some American hops that smell like you fell into a fruit basket.

The Chemistry of Sniff: Alpha Acids, Beta Acids, and Oils

Time for a mini science lesson! Don’t worry, no pop quiz at the end. Strisselspalt is low in alpha acids, which means it won’t make your beer super bitter. It’s perfect for when you want a smooth ride.

The beta acids and oils are where the magic happens.

These give Strisselspalt its subtle charm. It’s like the quiet person at a party who turns out to be the most interesting. The oils bring out those herbal and spicy notes that’ll make your nose happy.

When you brew with Strisselspalt, you’re getting a gentle touch of flavor. It’s great for beers where you want the malt to shine too. Think of it as the wingman of hops – it makes everything else look good without stealing the show.

Dancing with the Beers: Strisselspalt’s Best Partners

Strisselspalt hops love to tango with a variety of beer styles. These French darlings bring their subtle charm to the dance floor. Ready to waltz with lagers, twirl with ales, and even do a little jig with some bolder brews.

Light-Footed Lagers & Ales: A Lovestory

Picture this: you and your trusty Strisselspalt hops, hand in hand with a crisp lager or a sunny blonde ale. It’s a match made in beer heaven! These hops add a gentle floral kiss and a whisper of spice to your pilsners.

Want to brew a golden ale that shines brighter than your future? Sprinkle in some Strisselspalt for a subtle herbal note. It’s like adding a fancy bow tie to your beer – classy, but not over the top.

Feeling bold? Try dry-hopping your blonde ale with Strisselspalt. You’ll get a beer that’s more aromatic than your grandma’s perfume cabinet, but in a good way.

When Strisselspalt Meets Belgian Charm

Belgian beers and Strisselspalt? It’s like peanut butter and jelly, only bubblier and more fun. These hops play nice with Belgian pale ales, adding a touch of earthy sophistication.

But wait, there’s more! Saisons and Bière de Garde styles practically beg for Strisselspalt’s company. The hop’s subtle citrus notes dance a perfect pas de deux with the fruity esters in these beers.

Pro tip: Use Strisselspalt late in the boil or for dry-hopping in your saison.

You’ll create a beer so refreshing, it could make a cactus feel hydrated.

Bock to the Future: Stronger Styles

Don’t let Strisselspalt’s delicate nature fool you – these hops can hang with the big boys too. In a märzenbier or even bock beer, they add a gentle spice that complements the rich malty flavors.

Think of Strisselspalt as the ninja of the hop world. In stronger styles, it sneaks in, adds complexity, and vanishes without a trace. Your taste buds won’t know what hit them, but they’ll love it.

Want to brew a bock that’ll knock your lederhosen off? Use Strisselspalt for a late addition. You’ll get a beer with more layers than a German chocolate cake.

The Bitter Truth: It’s Not Just About Taste

Strisselspalt hops bring more to your brew than just bitterness.

These French beauties add layers of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Brewers’ Bittersweet Symphony

You might think bitterness is simple, but it’s a complex dance in your beer. Strisselspalt hops, with their low alpha acid content of 1.8-4%, won’t punch you in the face with bitterness. They’re more like a gentle nudge.

Want to use Strisselspalt for bittering?

Go ahead, but you’ll need more than usual. Try adding 1-2 oz per 5 gallons at the start of your 60-minute boil. This hop shines in subtle styles like lagers and Saisons. It’s perfect when you don’t want your beer screaming “I’M BITTER!” at your guests.

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	0.05	1	0.24	5	0.21
	Bittering	0.01	0.88	0.05	4.38	0.29
	Dry Hop	0.04	0.55	0.21	2.73	0.18
	First Wort	0.1	0.8	0.5	4	0.27
	Flavor	0.05	0.69	0.23	3.45	0.17
	Whirlpool	0.08	0.36	0.38	1.82	0.2
Saison Total		0.01	1	0.05	5	0.21
Biere de Garde	Aroma	0.06	0.5	0.29	2.5	0.2
	Bittering	0.02	0.59	0.1	2.97	0.27
	Flavor	0.05	0.79	0.25	3.94	0.22
Biere de Garde Total		0.02	0.79	0.1	3.94	0.22
Witbier	Aroma	0.03	0.27	0.13	1.36	0.15
	Bittering	0.12	0.4	0.62	2	0.23
	Dry Hop	0.1	0.18	0.48	0.91	0.14
	First Wort	0.18	0.38	0.91	1.9	0.28
	Flavor	0.12	0.4	0.62	2	0.22
	Whirlpool	0.04	0.3	0.21	1.5	0.16
Witbier Total		0.03	0.4	0.13	2	0.21
Belgian Pale Ale	Aroma	0.06	0.36	0.31	1.82	0.24
	Bittering	0.06	0.33	0.29	1.67	0.2
	Flavor	0.03	0.14	0.17	0.71	0.08
Belgian Pale Ale Total		0.03	0.36	0.17	1.82	0.2
American IPA	Aroma	0.11	0.4	0.53	2	0.22
	Dry Hop	0.09	0.33	0.47	1.67	0.22
	First Wort	0.12	0.27	0.58	1.34	0.2
	Flavor	0.12	0.25	0.58	1.23	0.16
	Whirlpool	0.09	0.24	0.45	1.19	0.17
American IPA Total		0.09	0.4	0.45	2	0.2
Blonde Ale	Aroma	0.06	0.53	0.28	2.67	0.16
	Bittering	0.05	0.36	0.25	1.82	0.23
	Dry Hop	0.03	0.21	0.17	1.03	0.12
	Flavor	0.06	0.36	0.28	1.82	0.16
Blonde Ale Total		0.03	0.53	0.17	2.67	0.17

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	0.35	7.49	7.04	149.78	1.55
	Bittering	0.08	6.57	1.6	131.35	2.16
	Dry Hop	0.31	4.09	6.24	81.78	1.36
	First Wort	0.75	5.99	14.98	119.83	2.07
	Flavor	0.34	5.16	6.81	103.3	1.24
	Whirlpool	0.57	2.72	11.43	54.47	1.47
Saison Total		0.08	7.49	1.6	149.78	1.56
Biere de Garde	Aroma	0.44	3.74	8.81	74.89	1.48
	Bittering	0.16	4.45	3.12	88.98	2.06
	Flavor	0.37	5.89	7.49	117.89	1.67
Biere de Garde Total		0.16	5.89	3.12	117.89	1.63
Witbier	Aroma	0.2	2.04	4	40.85	1.09
	Bittering	0.92	3	18.46	60	1.76
	Dry Hop	0.71	1.36	14.29	27.23	1.04
	First Wort	1.36	2.84	27.23	56.9	2.1
	Flavor	0.92	3	18.46	59.91	1.67
	Whirlpool	0.31	2.25	6.15	44.93	1.19
Witbier Total		0.2	3	4	60	1.57
Belgian Pale Ale	Aroma	0.47	2.72	9.36	54.47	1.82
	Bittering	0.44	2.5	8.81	49.93	1.48
	Flavor	0.25	1.06	5	21.13	0.6
Belgian Pale Ale Total		0.25	2.72	5	54.47	1.53
American IPA	Aroma	0.8	3	16	60	1.6
	Dry Hop	0.71	2.5	14.13	49.93	1.64
	First Wort	0.87	2	17.39	40	1.44
	Flavor	0.87	1.85	17.39	36.98	1.14
	Whirlpool	0.68	1.79	13.62	35.71	1.24
American IPA Total		0.68	3	13.62	60	1.47
Blonde Ale	Aroma	0.42	4	8.33	80	1.21
	Bittering	0.37	2.72	7.49	54.47	1.7
	Dry Hop	0.25	1.55	5	30.99	0.93
	Flavor	0.42	2.72	8.33	54.47	1.2
Blonde Ale Total		0.25	4	5	80	1.26

*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.

Layering Flavors: The Art of Dry Hopping

Dry hopping with Strisselspalt? Now you’re talking! This is where these hops really strut their stuff. Add 1-2 oz per 5 gallons for 3-7 days after fermentation. You’ll get a lovely floral and spicy aroma that’ll make your beer pop.

Try late additions too. Toss in at least 1 oz at 5 minutes before flame-out. This’ll give you a nice flavor boost without too much bitterness. Strisselspalt works wonders in Amber Ales, Blonde Ales, and Golden Ales.

It’s like adding a fancy French perfume to your brew. Ooh la la!

The Kin of Strisselspalt: A Hop Family Reunion

Strisselspalt isn’t just any old hop – it’s got quite the family tree!

Let’s dig into its noble roots and meet some of its hoppy relatives.

Not All Hops Are Created Equal: Noble vs Commoners

You might think hops are just hops, but you’d be wrong! Strisselspalt is part of the elite “Noble Hops” club. These fancy pants hops are like the royal family of the hop world. They’re known for their mild flavor and subtle aroma.

Other Noble Hops include:

Hallertauer Mittelfrüh
Tettnang
Spalt
Saaz
Lublin

These hops are the cool kids at the party.

They bring a refined touch to your brew without stealing the show.

Distant Cousins: The Hop Family Tree

Strisselspalt has some interesting relatives in its family album. Its German cousin, Spalt, shares many traits. You could almost call them twins! Hersbrucker is another close relative, bringing similar flavors to the mix.

Want to pair Strisselspalt with other hops? Try these combos:

Strisselspalt + Mount Hood = A match made in hop heaven
Strisselspalt + Crystal = A flavor explosion in your glass
Strisselspalt + Liberty = A hop duo that’ll make your taste buds dance

Can’t find Strisselspalt? No worries! Grab one of these substitutes:

Hersbrucker
Mount Hood
Hallertau

These hops will pinch-hit for Strisselspalt in a pinch.

Your beer might not be identical, but it’ll still be tasty!

Cultivating Characters: The Growth of Strisselspalt

Ever wondered how those tiny Strisselspalt hops make it to your beer? Well, buckle up, brew buddy, ’cause we’re about to spill the beans on this French charmer!

Strisselspalt is a bit of a diva in the hop world. It’s like that friend who’s always fashionably late to the party. This hop takes its sweet time growing, with a slower growth rate than its hop cousins.

But hey, good things come to those who wait, right?

While Strisselspalt might not win any yield contests, it makes up for it in personality. This landrace variety has been strutting its stuff in the Alsace region for centuries.

Now, here’s a fun fact for your next beer trivia night: Strisselspalt is a tough cookie when it comes to Verticillium wilt. It’s like the superhero of the hop world, fighting off diseases left and right.

So next time you’re sipping on a brew with Strisselspalt…

…raise a glass to the farmers who nurture these slow-growing, low-yielding, but oh-so-flavorful hops. They’re the real MVPs of your beer journey! Chapeau bas messieurs!

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