Styrian Dana Hops: The Underdog Hero of Craft Beer Styles
Dana hops apart from cute name are also very versatile. You can use them to do pretty much anything. Beer-wise. Hailing from the lush fields of Slovenia, these hops are a hybrid of the robust Hallertauer Magnum…
…and some rather mysterious Slovenian hop genetics.
When you’re scratching your head wondering if these hops can do the bittering and aroma dance in your brew, the answer is a resounding ‘Heck yeah!’
If you’re eager to brew a beer that stands out, Dana hops are your ticket. They’re like that friend who is both a confidant and a party animal. Their versatility fit snuggly in the realm of Pale Ales and IPAs.
Where their herbal, spicy and slightly lemony subtle notes can play lead guitar on your taste buds. Think of them as the secret ingredient that gives your beer that ‘what is this enchanting flavor?’ kind of moment.
Biggest flex? Captivating hoppy aroma…
Key Takeaways
- Dana hops are a dual-purpose darling, perfect for brewing both bitter and aromatic beers.
- They shine in Pale Ales and IPAs, bringing a symphony of juniper and thyme tunes.
- Embrace the versatility of Dana and let its flavors lead your beer to stardom.
The Origins and Attributes of Dana Hops
Imagine hopping on a time machine, only this time you’re not off to slay dragons. You’re unraveling the storied heritage of your favorite brewskie’s best bud: Dana hops.
Let’s dig into what makes Dana a champion in the world of hops.
Dana Hops Heritage and Cultivation
You see, Dana hops are not your average backyard weed. This Slovenian sensation is the lovechild of German Magnum and a mysterious wild Slovenian male.
It’s as if hop breeders swiped right and got the perfect match, giving us Styrian Dana. Cultivated in the lush fields of Slovenia, these little green cones are a testament to craft and quality.
Grown in: Slovenia
Parents: Hallertau Magnum and Wild Slovenian male
Main Characteristics
- Purpose: Dual / Universal
- Aromas: Spicy, Herbal, Juniper, Lemon, Thyme
- Notes: Floral, Pine, Pear
- Alpha-acids: 12.5% – 18.8% [bitterness added through boiling]
- Beta-acids: 4.2% – 6.0% [bitterness added through maturation]
- Cohumulone: 28% – 34% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
- Hops oil breakdown: 2.4 – 3.9 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
- Myrcene: 42% – 60% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
- Humulene: 15% – 22% [noble, woody, spicy]
- Caryophyllene: 5% – 8% [spicy, piney, herbal]
- Farnesene: 6% – 9% [fresh, green, floral]
Characteristics: From Alpha to Omega
Ready for the numbers? Dana hops don’t mess around when it comes to bitterness. With an alpha acid content ranging from a punchy 12.5% to a whooping 18.8%[!], you can bet your beer will have that crisp bite.
But don’t let the bitterness fool you. The beta acid levels of around 4.2-6% add a subtle undertone, ensuring your brew has complexity. Sort of like how your favorite super spy is tough on the outside, suave on the inside.
- Alpha Acid: 12.5-18.8%
- Beta Acid: 4.2-6.0%
Oil Composition: A Flavorful Elixir
Dana hops could be the secret sauce you never knew your beer needed.
With essential oils like myrcene and farnesene, it’s like a circus of aromas in there. Spicy, herbal, followed by juniper and thyme. With notes of floral, citrus, with a hint of pine. Imagine squeezing a lemon in a pine forest.
That’s your beer on Dana hops.
- Dominant Oils: Myrcene, Farnesene
And let’s remember, with great flavors comes great responsibility. Whether you’re a homebrew hero or a professional potions master, pairing Dana with the right beer style will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
So, pick your style, pick your Dana, and let’s make beer magic. Cheers!
Laughs with Lagers and Ales: Best Beer Styles for Dana
You’re about to embark on a flavorful journey with Dana hops, and it’ll be a hoot! This Slovenian hop variety, also known as Styrian Dana, is not just about the bitter bite.
It’s about the zest it brings to the pint!
The India Pale Ale Impersonation
When you think Dana hops, you might picture a scene of hopped-up IPAs with a citrusy and piney punchline. Surprise! You’d be half-right! These green gems add juniper and thyme, making them a perfect fit for an American IPA.
But for a hilarious twist, it’s the floral-spicy flair they lend to an IPA that really steals the show. It’s like having a stand-up comedian who can also sing opera. Unexpectedly harmonious.
Pale Ale Puns and Funs
Now, let’s chat about your classic Pale Ales.
You might not expect Dana hops to play nice with the balanced bitters of an English Pale Ale or the robust charm of an American Pale Ale. But they do.
The hoppy kick they bring is like a well-timed joke in the middle of an interesting tale, adding that spice that keeps you coming back for another sip.
Porter Punchy Lines
Pour yourself a porter and brace for the punchline.
Dana hops are ready to make a cameo here too! Craving some extra drama? These hops toss in those floral and pine notes and a touch of herbal that’ll mingle with the malty richness.
Like a comedian who knows to hit you with the punchline right when you least expect it.
The Stout Stand-Up Routine
And now, for the stout lovers! You like your beer like you like your humor. Dark and rich. Dana hops are ready to hop into the roast fest. They’ll echo the bold character of an Imperial Stout without stealing the spotlight.
Think of Dana as the wry sidekick, enhancing the deep coffee and chocolate notes with its subtle touch of pine and a whiff of spicy humor. The thing about Dana hops is, they’re not the show-stealers.
They’re the ones that enhance the ensemble.
The trusty sidekick that makes sure every beer style gets the laugh it deserves.
Cultivating Chuckles: Dana Hop Breeding and Characteristics
Hey there, fellow brew aficionado! Let’s dive into the uproarious world of Dana hops. Truly ‘hop-tacular’. Born from a wild hop romance between a German Magnum and a Slovenian beauty, they’re the botanical comedians of hop breeding.
Breeding History:
- Parentage: German Magnum hits it off with Slovenian wild hops
- Birthplace: Sunny Slovenia
Character Profiles:
- Aroma: Dana hops serenade your senses with a heady herbal and spicy number, jazzing it up with juniper and thyme. And a citrus ensemble featuring the zesty lemon and undertones of…pear.
For Your Brewery:
- Beer Style Besties: If you’re brewing an ale that craves a bright, sprightly character, Dana’s your hop. Picture an IPA or a Saison; these hops will have them tapping their feet to the tune of complex flavors.
Fun Feat:
- Dual-Purpose Diva: These hops don’t just do stand up at the aroma mic. They’re also dynamite in the bittering department. Talk about a flavor double-whammy!
Bonus Tip:
- When you’re looking for a hint of mystery in your brew, call on Dana. This hop doesn’t just whisper its qualities; it sings them in a harmonious blend that’ll make your beer the life of the party.
Remember, with Dana hops, you’re not just brewing beer.
You’re orchestrating a symphony of chuckles in every bottle.
Brewing With Dana: Maximizing the Impact
Before you dive into your brew pot with those lovely Dana hops, let’s unpack the best ways to use them to really make your beer sing. Expect a citrusy serenade with a piney encore.
Recommended Hopping Stages and Amounts
Alright, maestro, Dana hops are the do-it-all rockstars of the hop world. You can throw these in at bittering, flavor, or aroma stages. For a bitterness that slaps but doesn’t punch you in the face, add them early in the boil.
Want to tickle the taste buds with that distinctive hop flavor?
Chuck ’em in with 15 minutes to go. You’ll get citrus and pine too.
And if you’re after a noseful of herbal and spicy aromas that’ll make you want to take up a permanent residence in your fermenter, hit it at flameout or during dry hopping.
Also known as Styrian Dana or Extra Styrian Dana, this hop is the life of the party. Bringing all kinds of goodies. Spices, herbal, juniper, thyme, lemon. Plus pine, citrus and floral notes that’ll make your beer sing louder than a shower superstar.
Alright, first stop on our beerventure: the Bohemian Pilsner.
This beer is as smooth as a velvet Elvis painting and as crisp as your best bed sheets. Dana hops are like the secret spice in grandma’s cookie recipe – just right. Let’s toss in 1 ounce at the 60-minute mark.
This is the handshake that says, “Trust me, I’m going to make you shine.”
But don’t let the flame go out! With 15 minutes left on the clock, throw in another half-ounce. This is the hop high-five that boosts the floral and citrus notes, making your Pilsner pop like bubble wrap at a boredom convention.
Now, let’s switch gears to the ever-so-classy English IPA.
This brew is as balanced as a tightrope walker with an inner ear of steel. Dana hops here are like the accent that makes British villains so darn charming. Drop in 1 ounce for that initial bitter greeting. It’s like saying “cheerio” with a little extra oomph.
As the plot thickens and you’ve got 10 minutes left in the boil, it’s time for another half-ounce. This is the hoppy plot twist that keeps things interesting. Adding a bouquet of flavor that’s as surprising as finding a fiver in your laundry.
And because we’re all about a grand finale…
…sprinkle in a final half-ounce at flameout. It’s like the end-credits scene that leaves you wanting a sequel. A last burst of aroma that’ll have you sniffing your beer like it’s a bouquet of roses from a secret admirer.
Figuratively speaking.
The Math Behind Hopping: Amount Matters
Now, let’s crunch some numbers. You’re probably not brewing fairy tales, so keep amounts in check. If Dana hops are running at around 16% alpha acid, here’s a neat rule-of-thumb breakdown:
- For a bitter base without stealing the show: 1 oz early in the boil
- For a flavor jamboree: 0.5 – 1 oz within the last 15 minutes
- For an aroma that’s basically hop cologne: 0.5 – 1 oz at flameout or dry hopping
Remember, it’s a concert, not a solo. Balance is key!
Whirlpool Whimsy: Crafting Hilarity in the Kettle
When you’re stirring up a storm during the whirlpool stage, tossing in Dana hops can turn your kettle into a cauldron of flavors. Here’s how it unfolds:
- Temperature: Aim for a cooldown to about 170°F (77°C) before you invite Dana to the pool party.
- Timing: Give it a twirl for 15-30 minutes to maximize the laugh-out-loud lemony and pine notes.
- Technique: The trick is to not be shy, give those hops a good swirl to infuse your brew with Dana’s dazzling personality.
Dry Hop Additions: The Punchline in Your Pint
Dry hopping with Dana is like the final joke that has the whole bar roaring. A chuckle of herbal aroma with a spicy twist, that’s what you’re gunning for.
- When to Drop the Hops: Add these green jesters during secondary fermentation. Timing is everything in comedy and brewing!
- Quantity Quirks: Remember, Dana hops are high in alpha acids (15-16%), so a little goes a long way. You don’t want to overwhelm the audience.
Substitutions and Compatible Hop Partners
Suppose you’re all out of Dana, or just feeling adventurous.
You can sub in German Magnum for bitterness or go for a hop that’s likewise juniper and thyme. Let’s not make it a sudsy soap opera, though – stick to hops that play nice with others.
Compatible hop buddies for Dana could include:
- Cascade: brings its own citrus game
- Saaz: for a more traditional European vibe
Pair ’em up like a buddy cop movie, and watch the magic happen in your brew kettle.
Use this hop tactically, and you’ll be brewing up a pint that’s not only a riot to the senses but also wins the crowd every time. Cheers to that!
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
