Waimea hops are a New Zealand hop variety known for their distinctive flavor and aroma characteristics.

Here are some key features of Waimea hops:

1. Flavor Profile: Waimea hops contribute a bold and intense flavor profile with a mix of citrus, pine, and fruity notes. The citrus aspect often includes elements of lime and lemon, providing a bright and zesty character. The piney and fruity qualities add complexity to the hop profile.
2. Aroma: The aroma of Waimea hops is characterized by its strong and vibrant citrus notes, with additional hints of pine and fruitiness. The aromatic profile is robust, making Waimea a notable choice for brewers aiming to create hop-forward and aromatic beers.
3. Usage: Waimea hops are primarily used for both bittering and aroma additions in brewing. They are commonly added during various stages of the brewing process, including the late boil, whirlpool, and dry hopping stages to maximize their aromatic contributions. The high alpha acids content also makes Waimea effective for achieving significant bitterness in beer.
4. Alpha Acids: Waimea hops have a moderate to high alpha acids content, typically ranging from around 16% to 19%. This makes them suitable for providing both bitterness and aroma to beer.
5. Beer Styles: Waimea hops are well-suited for a variety of hop-forward beer styles, including India Pale Ales (IPAs), Pale Ales, and other craft brews where a bold and distinctive hop character is desired. They can be used in both single-hop and blend scenarios to create diverse flavor and aroma profiles.
6. Origin: Waimea hops were released in 2012 and were developed in New Zealand. They are a product of crossbreeding between a New Zealand male hop and a selected New Zealand "Smoothcone" hop.

Brewers appreciate Waimea hops for their ability to impart a powerful and multi-faceted hop character to beers. The combination of citrus, pine, and fruity notes makes Waimea a sought-after choice for brewers looking to create aromatic and flavorful brews.