HBC 472

HBC 472 is an experimental hop variety from the Yakima Chief hop breeding programme, that can bring out very interesting coconut and woody flavours as well as imparting pleasant citrus and grapefruit notes. It is a sister to the Sabro hop variety which shares similar coconut characteristics.

HBC 472 is a very versatile hop that brewers are still discovering new ways to use. For autumn/ winter beers, there are opportunities to try using HBC 472 in some rule-bending styles. Along with its coconut and tropical fruit aroma, HBC 472 also can contribute some barrel-like character and add another layer of complexity to a hop-forward porter, where the roastiness from the malt would work well with the coconut and wood character from the hops.

Alternatively, using HBC 472 in a stronger stout can give you barrel-aged characteristics, with a lot less hassle! It can be added in the dry hop as well, just be aware that HBC 472 can add some green/grassy aromas, and those can obviously be heightened when dry hopping.

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