Saaz (Saazer) hop: alpha acid, oil profile and typical use
Data sheetThe published Saaz (Saazer) hop data, the aroma it gives, the beers it suits, and what to use if you cannot get it.
Published hop data
| Origin | Czech Republic (Aroma (noble)) |
|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 1.4 to 7.5 % |
| Beta acid | 2.7 to 5.5 % |
| Cohumulone | not published |
| Total oil | 0.2 to 1 mL/100 g |
| Myrcene | up to 33.7 % |
| Humulene | up to 31.6 % |
| Caryophyllene | up to 8.7 % of oil |
| Farnesene | up to 13.2 % of oil |
Notes
Typical use: Aroma (noble). Recommended for Czech Pilsner, Bohemian lager, Belgian ale.
Aroma: Spicy and woody, with tarragon, lavender and cedar, plus floral elderberry, rose and camomile and a honeyed sweetness.
The classic noble hop of Czech Pilsner, low in alpha and oil so it is used generously for a delicate spicy-floral aroma rather than bitterness. Its high humulene and farnesene define the noble character. There is no true high-alpha substitute; a Saaz beer is defined by many small aromatic additions.