Helping Brewers Create Great Beer

Helping Brewers Create Great Beer

Riwaka™
Hop Variety Characteristics and Specifications

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Hop Variety Description

A cross of a New Zealand breeding selection and Saaz, it was first released from Plant and Food in 1997. A prized aroma hop, Riwaka is the definitive expression of New Zealand terroir. It showcases aromas of citrus and passionfruit. Riwaka is an early season hop with low to medium yield. All New Zealand hops are disease free.

Hop Variety Tech Specs

Beta Range: 4-5%
Cohumulone Range: 30-34%
Total Oil: 10.2-10.8ml/100g
Flavour Intensity: 9

Oil Composition

Myrcene: 65-70%
Humulene: 5-10%
Farnesene: 1%

In THe Beer

Citrus
tropical fruit
floral / herbal for Epic Hops, Fox hops

In The Rub

grapefruit
CharlesFaram-icon-citrus-04-lemon
pine

More Information About Riwaka™ Hop Variety

Riwaka™ Hops: A New Zealand Gem for Bright and Bold Aromatics

The Riwaka™ hop is a standout New Zealand variety developed by Plant & Food Research and released by NZ Hops Ltd. Known for its intense aroma and unique character, Riwaka™ hops have become a favorite among craft brewers looking to add a vibrant citrus punch to their beers. With a strong connection to the Saaz lineage, this hop brings a refreshing twist to modern brewing.

Brewing Characteristics of Riwaka™ Hops

Riwaka™ hops are celebrated for their powerful grapefruit and tropical fruit aroma. Notes of passionfruit, lime, and even hints of diesel give this hop a bold personality. Although its alpha acid content is relatively low—typically around 4.5% to 6%—Riwaka hops shine in late additions and dry hopping.

Their intense aroma makes them ideal for hop-forward styles like pale ales, IPAs, and hazy beers. When used correctly, Riwaka™ hops can dominate the sensory profile, offering a juicy and zesty experience that’s hard to replicate.

Why Brewers Choose Riwaka™ Hops

Brewers choose Riwaka™ hops for their ability to transform a beer’s aroma and flavor. They work well as a single-hop showcase or in combination with other New Zealand varieties like Nelson Sauvin or Motueka. This versatility allows brewers to experiment while maintaining balance and drinkability.

In the field, Riwaka™ hops are known for their lower yields and more demanding growing conditions. However, their unique profile makes them worth the effort. For brewers, sourcing Riwaka™ hops means gaining access to one of the most aromatic hops available today.

Beers Containing Riwaka™ Hops

Bookshelf by Moersleutel Beer Engineers

This beer offers creamy tropical fruit notes with a subtle hint of coconut. The result? A vibrant and complex hazy IPA with layers of juicy fruit and smooth, creamy sweetness. A true standout.