Bravo™
Hop Variety Characteristics and Specifications

Bravo ™ Hops

Bravo hops are a bold, high-alpha variety developed by the Hopsteiner Breeding Programme and released in 2006. As a daughter of Zeus, Bravo hops were specifically created for brewers seeking efficiency and consistency in bittering. However, they also offer surprising depth when used later in the brewing process.

Bravo Hop Aroma Profile

When rubbed, Bravo hops reveal a complex aroma made up of plum, pine, and resinous notes. These rich aromas make them appealing for more than just bittering. In fact, dry hopping or late kettle additions can unlock unexpected layers of dark fruit. Their aromatic complexity provides a great foundation for hop-forward recipes.

Bravo Hops in Brewing

In the beer, Bravo hops contribute woody undertones alongside warming spice and red fruit characteristics. These elements are particularly effective in stronger beer styles like imperial IPAs, stouts, and red ales. The red fruit notes help to round out the bitterness and add subtle depth.

Although known for their high alpha acids, Bravo hops don’t just bring bitterness. They also support well-balanced beer profiles with a full range of earthy, fruity, and spiced tones. This versatility gives brewers more creative control without sacrificing structure.

Brewing with Bravo

Bravo hops are most often used early in the boil due to their high alpha content. Yet they’re just as useful for building aroma and taste when used later. Many brewers combine Bravo with citrus or fruit-forward hops to create multi-layered profiles. They also pair well with malt-forward styles where a grounding, resinous hop is needed.

Bravo hops are an efficient and expressive choice for both bittering and complexity. With pine and plum aromas on the rub, and red fruit and spice in the brew, Bravo hops deliver more than just intensity—they add dimension to any recipe.

Beer and Breweries using Bravo Hops

Great Dane Brewing – Bravo Pale Ale – 6.4%

With only a single variety of malt and hops used, this beer brings a lot of depth to the table. They used Bravo hops, which produced orange, floral and candy-like aromas.

Dangerous Man Brewing – Single Hop Series #2: Bravo IPA

This brew hosts large fruit and jam tones including marmalade, orange, and pith. A reserved malt backbone helps to boost the hops out of the glass and add a tinch of sweetness to the present bitterness. Medium body with a dry draw.