Sovereign
Hop Variety Characteristics and Specifications

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Hop Variety Description

Developed at Wye College by Dr Peter Darby, the Sovereign hop variety is from an open pollination made in 1995. It is a grand-daughter of Pioneer and great, great grand-daughter of WGV. Light, sweet, floral character which can develop into subtle hints of fruit, Sovereign is a hop in the classic English style. It can be used a refreshing alternative to Fuggles and Goldings in both light and dark beers. Also proven to be successful in Pilsners, Helles and Wheat beers.
Sovereign Hop Variety

Hop Variety Tech Specs

Alpha Range: 4-7%
Beta Range: 2.1-3.1%
Cohumulone Range: 22-30%
Total Oil: 0.6-10.0ml/100g
Flavour Intensity: 6

Oil Composition

Myrcene: 25-30%
Humulene: 21-26%
Farsene: 3-4%

In THe Beer

floral / herbal
woody
spice

In The Rub

grassy
floral
earthy

More Information About Sovereign Hop Variety

Sovereign Hop Variety: A Modern British Hop with Classic Appeal

Sovereign hops offer brewers a refined alternative to traditional English varieties. Bred at Wye College, this hop was developed to replace older cultivars while maintaining the delicate bitterness and aroma associated with British beers. It was specifically bred from Pioneer and a descendant of WGV, giving it a unique profile with a noble hop lineage.

Brewing with Sovereign Hops

The Sovereign hop variety provides subtle yet complex characteristics. It offers gentle bitterness and soft aromatic notes of grassy, flaoral, and mild spiciness. These elements make Sovereign hops ideal for traditional styles like golden ales, pale ales, and bitters. When used as a late addition, they add complexity without overwhelming the malt profile.

With alpha acid levels ranging between 4% and 7%, Sovereign hops are versatile. While not overly assertive, they can be used throughout the brewing process. Many brewers prefer them for aroma or whirlpool additions. The result is a clean finish with elegant hop expression.

Why Brewers Choose Sovereign Hops

Brewers appreciate the balance Sovereign hops bring to recipes. They can be used on their own or paired with other English varieties for added depth. Additionally, Sovereign hops perform well in sessionable beers, enhancing drinkability without overpowering other ingredients.

Because of their low cohumulone content, the bitterness produced by Sovereign hops is perceived as smooth and pleasant. This makes them a popular choice for brewers aiming for subtle hop notes rather than intense bitterness.

Sovereign hops continue to gain attention among craft brewers who seek tradition with a modern twist. Their reliable performance and delicate expression ensure their place in contemporary British brewing. As demand for nuanced hop profiles grows, Sovereign hops offer a dependable and appealing option.

Beers made using Soveign Hops

Hop Union Brewery – Maiden Voyage

Atlantic Brewery – Atlantic Blue