Kazbek
Hop Variety Characteristics and Specifications

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Hop Variety Description

Bred from Saaz and a wild male. Released commercially in 2008 from the Hop Research Institute. A modern Czech aroma hop with noble properties and a pronounced citrus note. Kazbek is a high yielding, aroma variety that is harvested late. Acceptable resistance to Downy and Powdery Mildew.

Hop Variety Tech Specs

Alpha Range: 5-8%
Beta Range: 5-8%
Cohumulone Range: 35-40%
Total Oil: 0.9-1.8ml/100g
Flavour Intensity: 8

Oil Composition

Myrcene: 40-55%
Humulene: 20-35%
Farsene: <1%

In THe Beer

Citrus
floral / herbal
spice
Citrus
floral / herbal
spice

In The Rub

lemon
grapefruit
spice
lemon
grapefruit
spice

More Information About Kazbek Hop Variety

Discover the Unique Qualities of Kazbek Hop

Kazbek hop is a distinctive aroma variety that brings a fresh twist to brewing. Originally bred in the Czech Republic, Kazbek is a cross between the traditional Saaz hop and a wild male variety. This heritage gives it both classic, noble character and bold, modern flair. With its complex profile and versatile nature, the Kazbek hop has earned a loyal following among craft brewers.

Aroma and Flavour Profile of Kazbek Hops

The Kazbek hop delivers delightful aromas of lemon, grapefruit and spice.  Along with notes of citrus, floral and spice within the beer,  making it ideal for both traditional lagers and experimental ales. Thanks to its high myrcene and humulene content, Kazbek creates a balanced bitterness with a smooth finish. Moreover, this hop contributes a soft floral aroma when used in late additions.

Brewing with Kazbek Hop

Kazbek hops are excellent for late kettle additions, whirlpooling, and dry hopping. Brewers often use them to add aroma without overwhelming bitterness. While it performs well on its own, Kazbek also blends smoothly with other international hops. In particular, it pairs well with varieties like Hallertau and Tettnang. This allows brewers to achieve more layered, nuanced flavour profiles.

Growing Popularity of Kazbek Hops

Craft brewers are increasingly turning to Kazbek hop for its unique character. It offers something new without straying too far from tradition. As more breweries look to innovate, Kazbek’s versatility stands out. Notably, it can be found in lagers, pale ales, and even some IPAs. This wide range of uses makes it a valuable addition to any hop portfolio.

In conclusion, the Kazbek hop brings bold flavour, aromatic complexity, and consistent performance. Whether you’re brewing a crisp pilsner or a modern pale ale, Kazbek can elevate your beer. Give this hop a try—you might just discover a new favourite.

Beers and Breweries using Kazbek hops

Redemption Brewery – Kazbek 

A Blonde Ale with a Czech twist. The use of Kazbek hops gives this modern blonde ale a lemon sherbet character but the extra pale malt base doesn’t take away from the flavour profile and allows the hops to shine. The perfect summer beer.

OGAR Brewery – OGAR Kazbek

The Czech hop variety Kazbek is very pleasantly aromatic, giving this beer a uniquely delicate spicy bitterness with a floral-citrus aroma.