Emperor
Hop Variety Characteristics and Specifications

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Hop Variety Description

Crossed in 2013 and released from the Hop Development Program in 2016 Emperor® was first grown by Simon Parker in Herefordshire and is a sister to Opus®. Warm notes of orange zest, spice and herbs come to the fore, especially when used late in beers with darker malts.
Emperor hop variety. Find characteristics and information on our hop oracle

Hop Variety Tech Specs

Alpha Range: 6-8%
Beta Range: 6-8%
Cohumulone Range: 35-38%
Total Oil: 0.7-1.1ml/100g
Flavour Intensity: 7

Oil Composition

Myrcene: 0.36
Humulene: 10%
Farsene: 10.50%

In THe Beer

Citrus
floral / herbal
woody

In The Rub

orange
resinous
herbal

More Information About Emperor Hop Variety

Bold and Modern: The Power of Emperor Hops

Emperor hops are a relatively new British variety bred for intense aroma and strong bittering potential. Developed by Charles Faram’s Hop Development Programme, Emperor hops meet the growing demand for bolder, more expressive hops suited to modern craft beer styles. They offer a powerful profile while maintaining the smooth character often found in UK-grown varieties.

Aroma and Profile of Emperor Hops

The Emperor hop delivers bold aromas of citrus, floral and Woody. Notes of orange, herbs and resin are often present. This makes the variety ideal for hop-forward beers that require both depth and brightness. With alpha acid levels typically between 6% and 8%, it works well for both aroma and bittering additions.

Because of its high oil content, the Emperor hop is especially impactful in late kettle additions and dry hopping. It produces a rich bouquet without harsh bitterness. Therefore, it’s well-suited for IPAs, pale ales, and hoppy lagers.

Beers Featuring Emperor Hops

Although still new to the market, several breweries have started experimenting with the Emperor hop. Craft brewers looking for unique British-grown alternatives to American hops find it appealing. These beers showcase intense hop character while maintaining a clean finish.

Emperor hops are often used in single-hop beers or featured in bold hop blends. When paired with other modern UK varieties like Jester® or Harlequin®, they create well-rounded, aromatic profiles that appeal to a wide audience.

Why Brewers Choose Emperor Hops

Emperor hops are a great choice for brewers seeking strong impact with a British identity. Their intense citrus and resin notes make them suitable for modern craft recipes. In addition, their consistency and versatility ensure excellent performance in a range of styles. Whether in bold IPAs or expressive pale ales, Emperor hops command attention.