Sultana Hops Extravaganza: Unveiling Their Perfect Beer Style Match!
Sultana hops, a name as exotic as its flavors, might just be the new showstopper in your brewing ballet. Once known as Denali, they’ve kicked off their old name like a worn-out pair of tap shoes and…
…are dancing to a rhythm that’s fresh, vibrant, and downright pineapple-y.
Yes, you heard right! Imagine a hop that tosses out pineapple, pine, and citrus notes like a jazz hands finale. If you haven’t met Sultana yet, prepare for a hop that’s set to turn your brews into headliners.
So, what’s the best stage for our prima donna Sultana? This hop isn’t picky, but it shines like a disco ball in hop-forward ales, throwing its weight in flavor and aroma like it’s closing night on Broadway.
India Pale Ales, in particular, welcome Sultana with a standing ovation.
Letting those tropical notes belt out like a soprano in a spotlight. But hey, this isn’t a one-trick pony. Sultana also knows how to play nice with other beer styles, adding a unique twist wherever it goes.
Brewing with Sultana is like adding a secret ingredient that makes everyone wonder:
“What’s that delightful note?”
Key Takeaways
- Sultana hops, also known as Denali, bring a tropical punch to the brew, with pineapple and citrus notes leading the flavor parade.
- They are a superstar in hop-centric ales, especially IPAs, where their bold flavors can truly take center stage.
- The versatility of Sultana allows it to complement various beer styles. Adding an intriguing and unmistakable character to each.
What Are Sultana Hops?
If you think all hops are just bitter little nuggets, let me introduce you to the Sultana hop. It’s like the cool new kid on the block that’s bursting with a personality you just can’t ignore.
Parentage and Pedigree
Sultana hops, you could say, were born into hop royalty. Their genetic makeup is a who’s who of the hop world. 50% Nugget brings the boldness, while 25% Zeus adds a touch of mythical strength.
The final 25%? A mystery variety from the USDA 19058 collection. Bringing a unique je ne sais quoi to the brew. Together, they create a hop that’s as complex as a modern craft beer enthusiast’s palate.
Any super powers? Plenty.
But one of them is resistance to downy and true mildew.
Ah, and you can get around 2700 lbs per acre – not too shabby.
Genetic Lineup:
- Nugget: 50% (Hefty and bold)
- Zeus: 25% (Mythical strength)
- USDA 19058: 25% (The wild card)
Main Characteristics
- Purpose: Dual / Universal
- Aromas: Tropical, Pineapple, Citrus
- Notes: Pine, Resin, Stone Fruit
- Alpha-acids: 13.0% – 16.0% [bitterness added through boiling]
- Beta-acids: 3.5% – 7.0% [bitterness added through maturation]
- Cohumulone: 22% – 26% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
- Hops oil breakdown: 2.5 – 4.5 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
- Myrcene: 54% – 60% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
- Humulene: 30% – 40% [noble, woody, spicy]
- Caryophyllene: 5% – 7% [spicy, piney, herbal]
- Farnesene: 0% – 1% [fresh, green, floral]
Hopsteiner’s Pride: The Sultana Story
Hopsteiner’s wizardry in the Breeding Program gave us Sultana hops.
Formerly known as Denali, and humorously nicknamed “Nuggetzilla” by those in the know. And initially Hopsteiner Experimental 0627. These hops are no wallflower; they stand tall like a peak in the Alaskan Range, demanding attention.
It’s a story of a decade-long journey from experimental cross to a hop that breweries clamor for. And let’s be real, with names like Sultana, Denali, and Nuggetzilla, you know you’re in for a flavor adventure.
They’re not just charming; they’re charismatic.
With an aroma profile that packs a punch of pineapple, a high-five of pine, and a citrus kick, making any beer they touch instantly more memorable.
Remember, great beers start with great hops, and Sultana is like the secret handshake of exceptional brews. So, grab your tankard and toast to this hop with gusto.
You’re in for a tropical, piney treat!
The Aromatic Symphony of Sultana
Get ready to tickle your taste buds with the vibrant beats of Sultana hops. Picture an orchestra of flavors playing a symphony just for you – that’s what brewing with Sultana promises.
Sultana’s Citrus Fusion
Cue the trumpets. The citrus aromas are here loud and clear, hitting high notes of zesty lemon and tangerine. These aren’t just any citrus notes; they’re the kind you’d write home about.
Brewing with Sultana means you’re infusing your beer with a citrus vibe…
…that’s fresher than a mint leaf at a toothpaste convention.
The Piney Undertones
Now, imagine the bass guitar of the flavor band – pine. It’s the resonating undertone that brings depth to your brew. Think forest fresh, with a whiff of mystery, like a pine-scented cologne that somehow smells like adventure.
Tropical Twist and Tangy Notes
And then, there’s the twist – tropical fruit. It’s like each sip teleports you to a hammock somewhere exotic, with a blend of pineapple and passion fruit notes teasing your nostrils.
It’s not just tropical; it’s a tropical fruit punch that packs a wallop.
Tasting Notes: The Flavors of Sultana
Here’s where the flavor cranks up. Get a taste of that fruity melody with every gulp. We’re talking a fruit salad of flavor. Pineapple, passion fruit, and a little herb to spice things up. Sultana doesn’t just bring the hops; it brings the whole darn fruit stand.
Sultana’s Role in Beer Styles
If you’re a fan of beers with a bold hop character, Sultana hops are like the seasoning that chefs won’t shut up about. Exotic, versatile, and a little over-the-top.
Acids and Oil Composition
Break out your lab coat because we’re getting sciency.
Sultana hops boast a high alpha acid percentage, typically ranging between 13%-16%. That means you’re getting a bitter kick in the taste buds, ideal for crafting that perfect IPA. But wait, there’s more! Its oil content is a treasure trove.
A humongous Total Oil (ml/100g) of around 2.5-4.5 mL / 100 grams.
Ensuring your pint is bursting with flavor.
- Myrcene: 54-60% – Translation: Hello, fruitiness!
- Caryophyllene: 5-7% – A dash of spice, for intrigue.
- Humulene: >30% – Think piney, like a forest hike.
- Farnesene: < 1% – Just a whisper.
The Perfect Match for IPAs
IPAs and Sultana hops are a match made in hop heaven. Imagine a tropical vacation right in your glass. With Sultana’s prominent pineapple and citrus notes, your IPA is guaranteed to be the life of the beer party.
Think big, bold, and tantalizingly tropical pirate’s treasure of hops, but for beer. Remember, dosing is key. Too little and you’ll miss the beat, too much and you might overwhelm your palates’ dance floor.
American IPA Pairing Suggestions:
- Base Hops: Start conservative, layer those Sultanas in later.
- Dry Hopping: Sprinkle that hoppy magic liberally for an aroma that slaps you with fruitiness.
Beyond IPAs: Exploring Other Styles
But let’s not pigeonhole Sultana into just IPAs.
This hop’s versatility flirts with a range of beer styles. Fancy a Pale Ale? Sultana adds a fruity whisper to your sips. Considering a Pilsner or Lager? You’ll bring an unexpected twist. Like bringing a lute to a rock concert.
The key is balance; you want that Sultana hop to harmonize with your beer’s melody.
Without turning it into a one-hop wonder show.
Alternative Beer Styles:
- Pale Ales: A subtle nod to the tropics.
- Pilsners/Lagers: A citrus wink in a traditionally crisp profile.
So there you have it, Sultana hops. They’re like your beer’s charismatic friend who knows how to amp up a party without stealing your thunder. Enjoy experimenting, but don’t say I didn’t warn you; it’s easy to fall in love with these hops.
Brewing With Sultana: The Technical Specs
Before you throw on your brewer’s cap and get elbow-deep in hops, let’s rap about the mighty Sultana. Big on flavor, big on specs. This hop doesn’t mess around.
When and How to Add Sultana Hops
When brewing with Sultana hops, timing is everything. Just like your botched attempt at stand-up comedy last Friday. You want to add these bad boys at the right moment to snatch up their bold flavors and aromas.
Sultana packs an alpha acid punch ranging from 13-16%, with beta acids lounging usually between 4%-7%. Chuck them in early if you’re hankering for bitterness, or toss them late in the boil to snag those juicy notes.
Without going overboard on the bitter train.
- Early Addition: For bitterness, aim for the 60-minute mark
- Late Addition: For aroma, add in the last 5-25 minutes of boiling
Pro Tip: Dry hopping is like sending a friend request to flavor town.
Do it if you want a nose-dive into those tropical, piney notes.
Sultana in the Wild: Homebrewer’s Delight
Let’s get wild. With Sultana hops in your homebrew, you’re the beer whisperer taming the wildest of brews. With a total oil content of 2.5-4.5 ml/100g, these hops are juicier than celebrity gossip.
Their myrcene levels can be off the charts, meaning you’re in for a fruity bonanza with every sip. Here’s the kicker. Your Sultana-infused creation has a better resistance profile than your last umbrella in a storm.
Fending off various diseases with the might of a hop superhero.
- Alpha-Beta Ratio: Like a well-balanced seesaw, this hop’s got harmony.
- Oils Breakdown: Big on myrcene, humulene, caryophyllene, and a hint of farnesene, it’s a citrus-pine symphony.
Remember, whether you’re a homebrew hero or just dipping your toes, Sultana’s versatility and high oil content make it a dynamite choice that doesn’t skimp on personality. Kind of like your favorite eccentric uncle.
Hoppins Stages and Amounts
Sultana, a.k.a. Denali, the hop that’s more majestic than a bald eagle doing the moonwalk. This hop’s got a resume packed with pineapple, citrus, and a hint of pine that’ll make your taste buds feel like they’ve hit the jackpot at a flavor casino.
First on our hop-tastic voyage is the American IPA.
The brew that’s as bold as a lumberjack’s beard.
In this hop playground, Sultana is the cool kid on the seesaw, pushing your beer to new heights. Launch the hop party with a generous 1-1.5 ounces at the 60-minute mark. Laying down a bitterness that’s as solid as your grandma’s fruitcake.
But, you know, actually enjoyable.
Keep your paddle in the river, ’cause at 15 minutes to go, we’re tossing in another ounce. This is the flavor burst that’s like finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag.
And for the grand hop finale, after fermentation, hit it with a 2-ounce dry-hop cannonball. This is the aroma splashdown that’ll have your nose throwing a ticker-tape parade.
Now, let’s mosey on over to the Hazy IPA.
The beer that’s as mysterious as Bigfoot’s diary. With Sultana, you’re about to make it as juicy as a peach in a wrestler’s grip. Kick things off with 1 ounce at the start of the boil, setting the stage for a bitterness that’s as gentle as a butterfly’s handshake.
But wait, there’s more! At flameout, it’s time for a flavor fiesta with another 2 ounces. This is the tropical twist that’ll make your beer taste like a beach vacation in a can.
And because we’re all about the encore, go big with a 3-ounce dry-hop after fermentation.
This is the aroma extravaganza that’ll have your senses doing the conga line.
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 | 0.02 | 0.71 | 0.12 | 3.56 | 0.18 |
Bittering | 0.04 | 0.4 | 0.2 | 2 | 0.13 | |
Dry Hop | 0.03 | 1.4 | 0.14 | 7 | 0.29 | |
First Wort | 0.02 | 0.29 | 0.11 | 1.45 | 0.1 | |
Flavor | 0.02 | 0.33 | 0.11 | 1.67 | 0.11 | |
Hop Stand | 0.1 | 0.53 | 0.5 | 2.67 | 0.32 | |
Hopback | 0.09 | 0.4 | 0.47 | 2 | 0.25 | |
Whirlpool | 0.05 | 0.67 | 0.23 | 3.33 | 0.26 | |
American IPA Total | 0.02 | 1.4 | 0.11 | 7 | 0.22 | |
New England IPA | Aroma | 0.05 | 0.3 | 0.23 | 1.5 | 0.17 |
Bittering | 0.09 | 0.2 | 0.45 | 1 | 0.13 | |
Dry Hop | 0.06 | 1.78 | 0.31 | 8.89 | 0.34 | |
Flavor | 0.05 | 0.5 | 0.24 | 2.5 | 0.14 | |
Whirlpool | 0.03 | 1.78 | 0.15 | 8.89 | 0.24 | |
New England IPA Total | 0.03 | 1.78 | 0.15 | 8.89 | 0.26 | |
American Pale Ale | Aroma | 0.02 | 0.25 | 0.12 | 1.25 | 0.12 |
Bittering | 0.05 | 0.2 | 0.23 | 1 | 0.1 | |
Dry Hop | 0.05 | 0.79 | 0.27 | 3.93 | 0.27 | |
First Wort | 0.01 | 0.08 | 0.05 | 0.42 | 0.05 | |
Flavor | 0.03 | 0.2 | 0.13 | 1 | 0.1 | |
Whirlpool | 0.05 | 0.42 | 0.25 | 2.08 | 0.18 | |
American Pale Ale Total | 0.01 | 0.79 | 0.05 | 3.93 | 0.17 | |
Double IPA | Aroma | 0.05 | 0.36 | 0.23 | 1.82 | 0.17 |
Dry Hop | 0.1 | 1.03 | 0.5 | 5.16 | 0.29 | |
Flavor | 0.1 | 0.18 | 0.5 | 0.91 | 0.14 | |
Whirlpool | 0.05 | 0.5 | 0.23 | 2.5 | 0.19 | |
Double IPA Total | 0.05 | 1.03 | 0.23 | 5.16 | 0.22 | |
American Light Lager | Aroma | 0.04 | 0.27 | 0.22 | 1.36 | 0.16 |
Dry Hop | 0.4 | 0.95 | 2 | 4.76 | 0.58 | |
Flavor | 0.08 | 0.2 | 0.4 | 1 | 0.17 | |
Whirlpool | 0.16 | 0.33 | 0.79 | 1.67 | 0.25 | |
American Light Lager Total | 0.04 | 0.95 | 0.22 | 4.76 | 0.3 |
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 | 0.18 | 5.33 | 3.52 | 106.67 | 1.31 |
Bittering | 0.3 | 3 | 5.91 | 59.91 | 0.99 | |
Dry Hop | 0.2 | 10.48 | 4.08 | 209.7 | 2.17 | |
First Wort | 0.17 | 2.18 | 3.33 | 43.57 | 0.73 | |
Flavor | 0.17 | 2.5 | 3.33 | 49.93 | 0.82 | |
Hop Stand | 0.75 | 4 | 15 | 80 | 2.38 | |
Hopback | 0.7 | 3 | 14.09 | 59.91 | 1.85 | |
Whirlpool | 0.34 | 4.99 | 6.9 | 99.86 | 1.95 | |
American IPA Total | 0.17 | 10.48 | 3.33 | 209.7 | 1.64 | |
New England IPA | Aroma | 0.34 | 2.25 | 6.81 | 44.93 | 1.26 |
Bittering | 0.67 | 1.5 | 13.33 | 29.96 | 0.93 | |
Dry Hop | 0.46 | 13.31 | 9.22 | 266.28 | 2.54 | |
Flavor | 0.36 | 3.75 | 7.13 | 75 | 1.07 | |
Whirlpool | 0.22 | 13.31 | 4.36 | 266.28 | 1.83 | |
New England IPA Total | 0.22 | 13.31 | 4.36 | 266.28 | 1.95 | |
American Pale Ale | Aroma | 0.19 | 1.87 | 3.7 | 37.33 | 0.93 |
Bittering | 0.34 | 1.5 | 6.81 | 29.96 | 0.75 | |
Dry Hop | 0.4 | 5.88 | 8 | 117.65 | 2.04 | |
First Wort | 0.08 | 0.62 | 1.63 | 12.48 | 0.36 | |
Flavor | 0.2 | 1.5 | 4 | 29.96 | 0.76 | |
Whirlpool | 0.37 | 3.12 | 7.41 | 62.31 | 1.34 | |
American Pale Ale Total | 0.08 | 5.88 | 1.63 | 117.65 | 1.26 | |
Double IPA | Aroma | 0.34 | 2.72 | 6.81 | 54.47 | 1.25 |
Dry Hop | 0.75 | 7.73 | 14.98 | 154.61 | 2.15 | |
Flavor | 0.75 | 1.36 | 14.98 | 27.23 | 1.04 | |
Whirlpool | 0.34 | 3.74 | 6.81 | 74.89 | 1.42 | |
Double IPA Total | 0.34 | 7.73 | 6.81 | 154.61 | 1.65 | |
American Light Lager | Aroma | 0.33 | 2.04 | 6.54 | 40.85 | 1.19 |
Dry Hop | 3 | 7.13 | 59.91 | 142.56 | 4.37 | |
Flavor | 0.6 | 1.5 | 12 | 29.96 | 1.24 | |
Whirlpool | 1.19 | 2.5 | 23.76 | 50.03 | 1.89 | |
American Light Lager Total | 0.33 | 7.13 | 6.54 | 142.56 | 2.24 |
*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.
Sultana’s Popularity
Imagine a hop with the sass of pineapple and the bark of pine – meet Sultana. Once cloaked under the moniker Denali, this hop has a mountainous persona, and for good reason. Brewers have been flocking to it like it’s the last pint at a beer festival.
Since its debut in 2016, Sultana has scored rave reviews, making it the hop to watch (and brew with). Now, don’t think it’s all hype; this hop is like a Swiss Army knife for the avid homebrewer – versatile and full of zesty charm.
Thinking about giving it a whirl in your next brew day?
You’ll be joining a cool club.
The brewery scene has embraced Sultana’s majestic qualities.
Whipping up everything from punchy IPAs to pale ales that hum with flavor. It’s not just about that tropical vibe. With a super-charge of alpha acids (13-16%, if you’re counting), it tosses in bitterness that’s as smooth as your best pick-up line.
But here’s the real kicker: you can use Sultana at any stage of brewing. Early additions harness its bitter side. While late splashes in the kettle or dry hopping get those citrus and pine notes to stage-dive into your beer.
Seriously, if your brew could high-five you, it would.
So, whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just dipping your toes in the mash tun, give Sultana a shot. It’s like the latest hit single in hop form. It has everyone’s taste buds dancing. Cheers to the hop that’s climbing the charts in the craft beer world! 🍺
Sultana Substitutes and Team Players
So you’ve hit a snag: your stash of Sultana hops has vanished faster than a six-pack on game day. Fear not! While Sultana, with its juicy pineapple and citrus vibes, is a tough act to follow, there are some stand-ins ready to take the stage.
Let’s get those beers brewed without missing a beat!
Firstly, say hello to Citra, the life of the hop party, known for a tropical fruity punch that mimics Sultana’s flair, but more citrusy. Sort of like the understudy who almost steals the show. But it was darn close.
Second, there’s El Dorado. Picture wandering into a candy store, that’s the vibe El Dorado brings to your brew. It’s not a carbon copy of Sultana, but it sure can dance to the same rhythm with its sweet fruity notes.
If you’re looking for triplets separated at birth, then Columbus, Tomahawk, or CTZ are your guys. Sure, they’re a bit more of a complex bunch, with a spicy edge, but they’ve got that resiny punch that can hold up the fort in your IPA.
Here’s the breakdown:
Substitute | Flavor Characteristics |
Citra | Tropical, citrus, fruity |
El Dorado | Stone fruit, candy-like sweetness, tropical |
Columbus | Earthy, spicy, herbal, with a touch of citrus |
Tomahawk | Similar to Columbus, with a bit of a stronger punch |
CTZ | Blend of Columbus, Tomahawk, Zeus; earthy and spicy |
Remember, substitution is more art than science.
You want some combination inspiration? Check this out.
For a fruity explosion, try combining Sultana with Citra and Azacca. You’ll get a delicious medley of pineapple and citrus notes. If you’re looking to add some complexity, Mosaic and Simcoe are excellent companions, bringing in layers of berry and earthy pine.
Want to go even more tropical?
Throw in some Galaxy for an extra burst of passionfruit and peach.
So have some fun, mix and match, and who knows, you might even discover the next great hop combo by accident! Happy brewing, my friend, and may the hops be ever in your favor!
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