Kohatu hops, while not as fruity as Wai-iti, offer a unique and intense aroma that adds a wonderfully fresh character to beer. The aroma of Kohatu is reminiscent of tropical fruit and freshly crushed pine needles, creating a sensory experience that is both exotic and invigorating.
When using Kohatu hops as an early addition in the brewing process, it imparts a pleasant and rounded bitterness. Despite its low alpha acid content, Kohatu still manages to contribute to the overall flavor profile of the beer in a meaningful way.
Personally, I have found that Kohatu hops bring a certain vibrancy to the beer that is hard to replicate with other hop varieties. The tropical fruit notes, such as passionfruit and pineapple, are particularly prominent and add a delightful sweetness to the overall taste. The freshness and brightness of the hops also make for a refreshing and uplifting drinking experience.
One of the standout qualities of Kohatu hops is its ability to enhance the aroma of a beer. The intense and distinct aroma of tropical fruit and pine needles can be incredibly enticing, drawing you in with each sip. It is a hop variety that truly engages the senses and adds depth to the overall sensory experience of the beer.
In terms of flavor, Kohatu hops can contribute a subtle earthiness and herbal character that complements the fruitiness. This adds complexity to the beer and prevents it from being one-dimensional. The balance between the fruity and herbal notes creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both interesting and enjoyable.
Kohatu hops may not be as fruity as some other hop varieties, but their intense aroma of tropical fruit and freshly crushed pine needles brings a unique and refreshing character to beer. With their low alpha acid content, they still contribute a pleasant bitterness when used as an early addition. The overall taste experience of Kohatu hops is vibrant, fruity, and subtly herbal, making them a fantastic choice for brewers looking to create beers with a fresh and tropical twist.