Riwaka hops are a New Zealand hop variety known for their vibrant and intense citrus aroma and flavor profile.

Here are some key features of Riwaka hops:

1. Flavor Profile: Riwaka hops are celebrated for their distinctive citrus character, with a focus on bright and zesty lemon and lime notes. The flavor is often described as clean, refreshing, and intense. The citrus qualities of Riwaka hops make them a popular choice for brewers aiming to create hop-forward and aromatic beers.
2. Aroma: The aroma of Riwaka hops is one of their most distinguishing features. It is characterized by strong citrus notes, particularly lemon and lime, along with some floral and tropical fruit undertones. The aromatic profile of Riwaka contributes to a lively and enticing sensory experience in the beer.
3. Usage: Riwaka hops are primarily used for aroma additions in brewing. They are commonly added during the whirlpool stage and in dry hopping to maximize their aromatic contributions. While they can provide some bitterness, their main value is in the intense citrusy and fruity aromas they bring to beer.
4. Alpha Acids: Riwaka hops have a moderate alpha acids content, typically ranging from around 4% to 6%. This makes them suitable for contributing both bitterness and aroma to beer.
5. Beer Styles: Riwaka hops are well-suited for a variety of hop-forward beer styles. They are often used in Pale Ales, India Pale Ales (IPAs), and other craft brews where a pronounced citrus character is desired. The intense citrus notes make Riwaka a favorite for brewers looking to create refreshing and aromatic brews.
6. Origin: Riwaka hops were developed in New Zealand and are known for being grown in the Motueka region. They are a proprietary hop variety with parentage that includes Saaz.

Brewers appreciate Riwaka hops for their ability to impart a bold and unmistakable citrus character to beers. The clean and intense lemon-lime notes contribute to a lively and aromatic profile, making Riwaka a valuable choice for brewers seeking to enhance the hop character in their brews.