When it comes to brewing a Belgian Tripel, the choice of hops is crucial in achieving the desired balance of flavors. The Belgian Tripel style is known for its complexity, with a combination of malt sweetness, fruity esters, and a moderate to high level of bitterness. To complement these characteristics, I would recommend using a combination of hop varieties that contribute to both the bitterness and aroma of the beer.
For the bittering aspect, I would suggest using a hop with a moderate alpha acid content. This will provide the necessary bitterness without overpowering the other flavors in the beer. Some suitable hop varieties for this purpose include Tettnang, Styrian Goldings, or Mt Hood. These hops have a smooth bitterness that complements the malt sweetness of the Tripel style.
To add a delicate hop aroma to the beer, I would recommend using Saaz hops. Saaz hops are known for their spicy and earthy qualities, which can enhance the complexity of the Tripel. Adding an ounce of Saaz hops with 5 minutes left in the boil will allow their aroma to shine through without contributing excessive bitterness to the beer.
It's worth noting that the hop character in a Belgian Tripel is not intended to be the star of the show. Instead, it should complement and enhance the other flavors in the beer. The focus should be on achieving a well-balanced beer with a pleasant hop presence.
In my own brewing experiences, I have found that using a combination of Tettnang for bittering and Saaz for aroma works exceptionally well in a Belgian Tripel. The Tettnang hops provide a smooth bitterness that doesn't dominate the beer, while the Saaz hops add a subtle spiciness that complements the fruity esters and malt sweetness.
Ultimately, the choice of hops for a Belgian Tripel is a matter of personal preference. Some brewers may prefer a more assertive hop character, while others may opt for a more subdued approach. Experimentation and tasting different combinations of hops can be a fun and rewarding part of the brewing process, allowing you to tailor the beer to your own taste preferences.
When brewing a Belgian Tripel, I recommend using a combination of Tettnang, Styrian Goldings, or Mt Hood for bittering, and Saaz for aroma. These hops will contribute to the overall complexity and balance of the beer without overpowering the other flavors. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the hop combination that best suits your palate. Cheers!