Verdant yeast is a highly versatile strain that has been specially selected for its ability to produce a wide variety of hop-forward and malty beers. It was developed in collaboration with Verdant Brewing Co. in the UK, a renowned brewery known for their exceptional hoppy beers.
One of the key characteristics of Verdant yeast is its ability to enhance the hop flavors and aromas in a beer. It is particularly well suited for brewing New England IPAs (NEIPAs) and Hazy IPAs, which are known for their intense hop character and hazy appearance. This yeast helps to accentuate the fruity and tropical hop flavors, giving these beers a juicy and vibrant profile.
In addition to NEIPAs, Verdant yeast is also a great choice for brewing other IPA styles, such as English IPAs and Bitters, as well as American Pale Ales. It adds a nice balance of hop bitterness and malt sweetness, creating a well-rounded and flavorful beer. I have personally used Verdant yeast in brewing a hoppy American Pale Ale, and it really brought out the citrus and pine notes from the hops, resulting in a deliciously hoppy and refreshing beer.
Furthermore, Verdant yeast is not limited to hoppy beers. It can also be used in brewing stouts and other malt-forward styles. I have experimented with using Verdant yeast in a stout recipe, and it added a subtle fruity and estery character that complemented the rich and roasty flavors of the beer.
One of the reasons why Verdant yeast is so versatile is its fermentation profile. It is known for its ability to ferment at higher temperatures, which can result in increased ester production. This can contribute to the fruity and tropical flavors often found in hop-forward beers. However, it is important to note that temperature control is still crucial to achieve the desired outcome. I have found that fermenting at the lower end of the yeast's temperature range helps to maintain a clean and balanced profile, while still allowing the hop flavors to shine through.
Verdant yeast is a fantastic option for brewers looking to create hop-forward and malt-forward beers alike. Its versatility and ability to enhance hop flavors make it a valuable tool in the brewing process. Whether you're brewing a juicy NEIPA or a robust stout, Verdant yeast can help you achieve the desired flavor profile and create a memorable beer.