The history of Sorachi Ace hops dates back to 1984 when it was first developed by Sapporo Breweries, Ltd. in Japan. This unique hop variety was created through a crossbreeding process, combining the characteristics of Brewer's Gold, Saaz, and Beikei No. 2 male hops. The aim was to create a hop variety with distinct flavors and aromas that would add a new dimension to beer brewing.
Sapporo Breweries, Ltd. is a well-known brewery in Japan, and they were looking for a hop variety that could provide a unique and interesting flavor profile to their beers. The result of their efforts was Sorachi Ace, a hop that quickly gained popularity among craft brewers around the world.
One of the reasons for Sorachi Ace's popularity is its unique aroma. It has a strong citrus fruit character, with hints of lemon, lime, and even grapefruit. This makes it a great choice for brewers who are looking to add a refreshing and zesty aroma to their beers. The herbal notes in Sorachi Ace also add complexity to the aroma, giving it a distinctive character that sets it apart from other hop varieties.
In addition to its citrus and herbal aromas, Sorachi Ace also has a subtle dill-like aroma. This is a unique characteristic that is not commonly found in other hop varieties. The dill aroma adds an interesting twist to beers brewed with Sorachi Ace, making them stand out and intrigue beer enthusiasts.
Despite its popularity, Sorachi Ace hops are still produced in limited quantities. This is because the hop variety requires specific growing conditions and can be challenging to cultivate on a large scale. As a result, it remains a sought-after hop variety among brewers, and its limited availability adds to its appeal.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to work with Sorachi Ace hops in my own brewing experiments. I have found that its distinct flavors and aromas can add a unique touch to a wide range of beer styles. Whether it's a pale ale, IPA, or even a saison, Sorachi Ace hops can bring a refreshing and complex character to the beer.
The history of Sorachi Ace hops is a testament to the creativity and innovation in the brewing industry. The development of this hop variety by Sapporo Breweries, Ltd. has opened up new possibilities for brewers, allowing them to create beers with unique and exciting flavors. Its limited availability only adds to its allure, making it a prized ingredient among craft brewers worldwide.