General Description

Having proven itself as a staple for brewers for more than 700 years, Saaz is one of 4 recognised noble hop groups known for their relatively subdued, classic herbal and earthy characters and low Alpha Acids, Saaz is widely used in a range of hop neutral styles of beer all around the world and especially in the commercial market due to its wide appeal.

Characteristics

Alpha Acids: 2.5 – 4.5%

Beta Acids: 4 – 6% 

Primary usage: Aromatic additions

Aromatic character: Herbal, earthy.

Complimentary beer styles

This hop strain is best used in beer styles such as:

Dunkel

Strong Ale

Pilsner

Altbier

Weizenbock

Golden Ale

Marzen

Pale Ale

Wheat

Specialty Ale

Hefeweizen

Light Ale

Lager

German Pilsner

American Lager

Experimental batches

Due to its low Alpha Acids and subtle notes.

Substitutes

Hallertau Mittlefrüh

Mateuka

Sterling

Keep in mind that alpha acid differences in substitutes may need to be accounted for when weighing out your quantities.

Storage

Colder is better when storing hops as the rate of loss halves for every 15°C lowered in temperature. Optimal storage conditions for hops are between -21°C - 0°C in a sealed, airtight environment.

Shelf life

If stored in ideal conditions your hops will only experience a rate of deterioration of about 10% for every 6 months stored. An unopened packet of hop pellets can effectively last up to 4 years in ideal conditions, though keep in mind that the rate of deterioration increases at higher temperatures and unsealed environments.