Fuggle

The Basic Statistics

Alpha Acids 2.4 – 6.1%
Purpose Aroma, Bitter
Country of Origin United Kingdom
Substitutes US Fuggle, Willamette, Styrian Goldings, Tettnanger, Progress
Suitable Beer Styles English Ales, Brown Ale, Porter, ESB

About Fuggle

Fuggle hops were first introduced commercially to the world by Richard Fuggle in 1875, however it was initially discovered as a seedling in 1861 in a hop farm. Initially used for bittering for a long period of time, it is now used more as an aromatic hop. 

When verticillium wilt  took hold of the hop in the 1940’s, Fuggle’s reputation took a massive hit. It has never again been as popular as it once was. The reasons for this are that the alpha acids are not as high as you can get with other hop varieties that are now available, so you can save some cash by not needing to use as much product in your beer.

While it can still be used for bittering, aroma is where this hop is now utilised most. It is well known for producing a grassy, kind of mint-like, floral aroma that is both clean and delicate. It is refreshing and full-bodied and works fantastic in the majority of classic English Ales, with some recipes specifying Fuggle as a key ingredient.

Fuggle hops are also grown in the United States (US), New Zealand (NZ) and Slovenia (Styrian Goldings). In each location that it is grown, the characteristics have slightly changed. They can be used with a lot of other hops or it will work well on its own. Especially good characteristics with the range of Goldings hop varieties.

Want to know more?

Ipswich Brewers Union has monthly meetings where we discuss all aspects of home brewing beer. Learn more about malt, hops, yeast and more by coming along! Visit our Events page to find out when the next meeting is on, or hit the Facebook icon below!