CTZ hops, also known as Columbus, Tomahawk, and Zeus hops, are a popular and versatile hop variety in the brewing world. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the chance to work with CTZ hops extensively and can attest to their unique characteristics.
Firstly, it is important to note that Columbus, Tomahawk, and Zeus hops are essentially the same hop variety, with slight variations in alpha acid content. This means that although they may go by different names, their flavor profiles and uses in brewing are very similar. This is great news for brewers, as it allows for flexibility and consistency in creating different beer styles.
CTZ hops are known for their earthy and spicy qualities, making them an excellent choice for adding bitterness and depth to a wide range of beer styles. When used as a bittering hop, CTZ hops contribute a clean bitterness that is not overpowering, allowing other flavors to shine through. This makes them particularly well-suited for hop-forward styles such as India Pale Ales (IPAs).
In my experience, CTZ hops have a pronounced resinous and piney aroma, which adds a delightful complexity to both the aroma and flavor of the beer. This resinous character can be especially prominent when used in dry hopping, where the hops are added during fermentation to enhance the hop aroma without contributing much bitterness.
Another advantage of CTZ hops is their high alpha acid content, which makes them an efficient choice for bittering. This means that brewers can achieve the desired level of bitterness with a smaller quantity of hops, reducing costs and potential vegetal flavors that can result from using excessive hops.
Although CTZ hops are commonly associated with hop-forward styles, they can also be used in other beer styles to add a touch of bitterness and complexity. For example, I have found CTZ hops to be a great addition to stouts, where their earthy and spicy qualities can complement the rich, roasted malt flavors.
Furthermore, CTZ hops can even be used in lagers, where their bitterness can help balance the clean and crisp nature of the style. I have personally experimented with using CTZ hops in a Czech Pilsner, and the result was a refreshing beer with a subtle, yet noticeable hop presence.
CTZ hops, also known as Columbus, Tomahawk, and Zeus hops, are an incredibly versatile hop variety with earthy and spicy characteristics. Whether used for bittering in IPAs, enhancing aroma in dry hopping, or adding complexity to other beer styles, CTZ hops are a fantastic choice for brewers looking to create flavorful and well-balanced beers.