When it comes to choosing the best hops for a dark mild beer, it's important to consider the traditional British brewing style and the desired balance of flavors. The dark mild style is known for its malt-forward profile and subtle hop character, so it's crucial to select hops that will complement, rather than overpower, the malt sweetness.
In this case, I would recommend using a British hop variety for bittering, such as Fuggle or East Kent Goldings. These hops are well-suited for the dark mild style as they offer a mild, earthy, and floral character that harmonizes well with the malt backbone.
The key here is to strike a delicate balance between malt sweetness and hop bitterness. Since the dark mild style typically features very little hop bitterness and aroma, it's important not to go overboard with the hops. Using just enough hops to provide a subtle balancing bitterness is the goal.
One approach to achieve this balance is to add the majority of the hops early in the boil for bittering purposes. This allows the hops to contribute to the overall flavor profile of the beer without overpowering it. Aim for a low to moderate bitterness level, as the focus of a dark mild is on the malt flavors.
In terms of hop additions, you could consider a single bittering addition, or if desired, a small late addition for a touch of hop aroma. However, it's crucial to keep in mind that the hop character should remain subtle, allowing the malt to take center stage.
Personal experience has taught me that using a British hop variety for dark milds can result in a well-balanced and enjoyable beer. The earthy and floral characteristics of Fuggle or East Kent Goldings hops can complement the malt sweetness, resulting in a harmonious flavor profile.
To summarize, when choosing hops for a dark mild, opt for a British hop variety like Fuggle or East Kent Goldings for bittering. Keep the hop additions minimal to maintain a balanced and malt-forward character. The goal is to enhance the beer's flavor without overpowering it with hop bitterness or aroma. Remember, the dark mild style is all about showcasing the malt, so let it shine.