Rakau

Rakau is a New Zealand gem, purpose bred and selected for its unique dual purpose brewing qualities and characteristics. Re-released from the NZ Hop breeding programme in 2007 for trials under organics and now widely established under conventional cultivation, it gives delightful, deep aromas of passionfruit, apricot and other stone fruits along with notes of pine.

Rakau has an intensity of aroma unlike many other hops, lifted from a heavy weight of oils. Brewers are agreed that the dominant fruitiness is that of fresh stone fruit such as apricot, with sensory panels scoring it highly on bitterness quality as well as unique fruity flavours and aromas, once described as “The whole orchard”.

Rakau features a high concentration of myrcene so is said to pair beautifully to dry-hopped American Pale Ales. New World styles of ales and lagers where intense, fruity characters and big, bold bitterness is required are also perfect brewing grounds for Rakau. It can also be readily used delicately for lighter styles, even with multiple kettle additions… a real treat is to test these experiences out for yourself and make something unique and delicious.

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