Hull Melon is a relatively new hop variety from Germany. It is a daughter of Cascade and was released in 2012.
This is one of the newer hop varieties bred specifically for aroma and flavor. It has a rather unique aroma profile.
Origin and History
In recent years, the craft beer movement has prioritized the creation of hops that are more flavorful and aromatic than the traditional varieties used in brewing. This led to the development of a number of new hop varieties that defy what we expect from this humble plant.
Originally introduced by Flemish farmers into Kent, hops were initially considered coarse and not suitable for brewing. However, with natural crossbreeding and selection by farmers, their quality improved.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
Huell Melon was developed by the Hop Research Institute of Hull, Germany and released in 2012. This unique dual-purpose variety can be used to make big punchy Ales as well as subtle yet bitter Lagers.
It is a dwarf, hedgerow type of hop that grows shorter in height than traditional varieties, but has the same yield making harvesting easier. Also, it produces a high percentage of farnesene which gives it a spicy character.
A daughter of Cascade, this hop has a very pronounced aroma profile that includes citrus, tropical fruit, floral and herbal characteristics. Specific descriptors include lemon, lime, papaya, apple, and green pepper.
Brewing Uses
Brewing uses vary from hop to hop, but all types of beer require ingredients such as water, malt and yeast. But the type of hop you use and the timing for additions also come into play when it comes to the flavor and aroma profile of a beer.
Hull Melon is a young German hop developed at the Hop Research Institute in Hull, Germany released in 2012. Its breeding program was headed by Anton Lutz, who earned the nickname “der Hofenflusterer” or “Hop Whisperer.”
Hull Melon is an aroma variety that is relatively new on the market. This daughter of Cascade has some unique flavors and aromas not often found in hops. It is known for bringing distinct honeydew melon and strawberry notes to your brews. It may also bring low whispers of orange, vanilla, geranium and fruit tea.
Pairing
Hops Hll Melon is a relatively new hop variety and has quickly become popular among brewers. It has a pleasantly sweet and fruity flavor similar to honeydew melon and strawberry.
The unique flavor of this variety makes it great for many different beer styles, including pale ales and IPAs. It can also be used as an aroma hop in late boil additions.
Light lagers are easy to pair with a wide variety of foods, including Buffalo wings, Spicy noodles, Salads, Fruit tarts and Pastries. They are also a good match for cheeses, roasted or grilled meats, and spicy Middle Eastern dishes.
Availability and Cultivation
The German Huell Melon hop was bred in 2012 in response to the growing craft beer movement that prioritizes new and exciting flavors. It imparts a unique honeydew melon and strawberry flavor that is not often associated with traditional hop varieties.
It also has a mellow bittering profile that works well in single hop pale ales and IPAs, especially those with yeast profiles that are characterful and not overly bitter. It can also be used as a late addition in blonde ales and Kolsches.
Hop cultivation requires a deep, well-drained soil with a pH of 6 to 7. It is important to keep the crown of the plant dry. Using drip irrigation and applying a combination of organic, granular, and soluble fertilizers at the right time helps growers produce successful hop plants.