Jester hops are a modern British variety developed by the renowned hop breeder Charles Faram as seedlings from Cascade. Designed to meet the growing demand for vibrant, fruit-forward hops grown in the UK, the Jester hop offers a punchy aroma profile while maintaining the balanced character brewers expect from British varieties.
The Jester hop delivers bold notes of grapefruit, resinous, and blackcurrant. In the brew, brewers pick up hints of woody, stone fruit, and citrus zest. With alpha acids typically ranging from 7% to 9%, Jester hops provide a well-rounded bitterness suitable for a variety of beer styles.
This hop performs especially well in late boil additions and dry hopping. It adds strong aromatic character to pale ales, IPAs, and session beers. Although bold, the aroma remains smooth and integrated, making it ideal for hop-forward beers that still feel refined.
Jester hops offer the intensity of American varieties with the consistency of UK-grown hops. This makes them appealing to brewers who want unique aromas while supporting local agriculture. Additionally, Jester hops blend well with both traditional and modern varieties, giving brewers more creative flexibility.
Charles Faram developed the Jester hop to provide brewers with a homegrown alternative to imported tropical-style hops. That goal has been met, as Jester hops now appear in a wide range of award-winning beers. Moreover, the variety grows well in British climates and delivers consistent yields.
Brewers value the Jester hop not only for its bold aroma but also for its dependable performance. It helps create distinctive beers that resonate with modern drinkers. Whether used alone or in combination with others, Jester hops continue to gain popularity across the UK and beyond.
North Riding Brewery – Jester
Oakham Ales – Laser Bolt