Yeoman Hops: Undusting Long Forgotten English Bine and Their Superpower

Aroma Profile

The nose knows, and with Yeoman hops, your sniffer might catch a whiff of mystery. Since Yeoman hops are more of a heritage variety, their aroma tends to be a rear-seat passenger rather than the driver.

If you do track them down, expect a resinous and slightly spicy bouquet…

…that’s more about nostalgia than knocking your socks off.

Strongly hoppy, but at the same time classic english aromas.

Bittering Potential

When it comes to bitterness, Yeoman hops don’t shy away from the spotlight. Their alpha acid levels range supposedly from 12 to 16%. While the beta acid content sits at a steady 4-5%. 

It’s like inviting a friend who can’t decide between being mellow or the life of the party. You never quite know which one you’ll get, but it’s always an interesting time.

Oil Composition

Yeoman hops may not be front and center today, but they’ve got an interesting profile of oil content. With total oils hovering around modest amounts, this hop whispers rather than screams. 

But that whisper? It’s like your favorite softly spoken aunt who unexpectedly tells the best stories. Expect some myrcene here and a dab of humulene, caryophyllene, and farnesene there.

Enough to give a little zing and zest to the beer’s personality.

Remember, Yeoman hops are like that quirky side character in the sitcom of brewing. They might not have a starring role, but they sure leave an imprint!

Yeoman Hops in Beer Styles

Yeoman hops might not be the rock stars of the hop world, but they have their moments in the limelight, especially when we’re talking about the classics. Let’s dive into where this variety really makes your beer sing.

Ales

Yeoman hops sidle up nicely to British Ales. Where they bring that quintessential English charm without breaking into a full-on musical number. When you’re after the familiar comfort of homey, pub-style ales, you call on Yeoman.

Despite its low-key reputation. 

Use it for that subtle, pine and herbal touch if you’re brewing up a storm and aiming for a beer that’s like a cozy, understated British sitcom. It feels just right, not in your face about it., but can pack a punch.

• Typical Usage in Recipes: 1 oz for a 5-gallon batch during bittering or the last 15 minutes of the boil for aroma.
• Pairing Tip: A touch of caramel malt can complement the strong hoppy character.

Lagers

In Lagers, think of Yeoman hops as that trusty second-string player that you put in when your star hops are out on injury. It’s not that they’re bad; but other varieties bring more to the table.

However, with a calm bitterness and a whisper of the English countryside…

…Yeoman can add a touch of elegance to your lager without staging a flavor takeover.

• Best Practice recommendation: Moderation is key, as you don’t want to overwhelm the crisp, clean profile of a Lager.
• Fun Fact: You might struggle to find Yeoman, so don’t be afraid to play matchmaker with another hop that has an English accent.

Brewing with Yeoman Hops

Listen up, budding brewmaster, you’re about to get schooled on the classic, although somewhat obscure, Yeoman hop. You might not find it headlining any craft beer posters, but it’s got a legacy worth tapping into.

Bittering Techniques

Yeoman hops pack a bitter punch. Ideal if you’re after a bit of traditional British stiff upper lip in your ale. Think of them as the “bitter but fair” judge in the courtroom of brewing. 

While it might not be your go-to these days…

…using it for bittering can bring that old-school vibe. 

You’ll want to toss these hops into the boil early to extract their bittering qualities. The longer they boil, the more bitterness you get. Keep your eyes on the clock and maybe do a little hoppy dance for good luck.

Flavor and Aroma Additions

For flavors and aromas, Yeoman hops are like that one-hit-wonder band from the 80s. Unforgettable to a few, unknown to many. They’re not the loudest in the hop orchestra.

But their notes can harmonize well in the mix, giving your beer a retro flair. 

Add these hops later in the boil or during dry hopping to coax out subtle flavors. It’s like adding a dash of that secret spice your Aunt Mildred swore by. Oddly specific yet unexpectedly delightful.

Be careful though as Yeoman is known for its strong hoppiness.

Remember, you’re the brew boss here, so feel free to experiment with the amount and usage. After all, brewing’s half skill, half art, and half throwing caution to the wind. 

But don’t ask me to do the math on that.

Future of Yeoman Hops in Brewing

You might find Yeoman hops playing hide and seek lately because, let’s face it, they’re not the cool kids in the hop yard anymore. Back in the day, Yeoman hops had their moment under the sun.

With a distinctive strong English hop aroma and strong hoppyness.

Waving at you from your pint glass. 

But as tastes evolved, Yeoman became a bit of a wallflower.

Trends: The craft beer world is fickle, chasing after the next big hop sensation. Yeoman hops, once a trusty sidekick in the brewing scene, now find themselves shelved more often than not. 

Honestly, to see Yeoman hops now, you’d need a hop-whisperer or a time machine.

Beer Styles: If Yeoman hops were on a dating app, they’d probably list ‘Traditional Ales’ as their type. Bitterness with a hint of refinement is what they’d bring to the table. 

These notes we once adored are now whispers of a bygone era.

Don’t cry into your beer just yet! Yeoman hops did pass on their legacy by playing matchmaker in the development of new varieties. Who knows? Their genetic mojo might just make a comeback.

I wouldn’t count on them headlining any beer festivals, but they’ll always have a special place in the hop hall of fame. Or at least in our nostalgic hearts. Cheers to you, Yeoman hops, for your yeoman’s service.