FIRST GOLD, Pellets T90
First Gold hops are a versatile and compact variety prized for their dual-purpose capabilities, combining smooth bitterness with a delightful array of flavourful aromas. A favourite among craft brewers, they shine in traditional British ales and modern interpretations alike.
- Flavour Profile: Earthy, spicy, and citrusy with orange peel notes.
- Beer Styles: Ideal for pale ales, bitters, IPAs, porters, and English-style ales.
- Alpha Acids: Typically 6-10%.
- How to Use First Gold: First Gold hops are perfect for bittering and aroma applications, and they excel as a dry hop for enhancing citrusy and earthy profiles.
Description
What is First Gold?
First Gold is a dwarf hop variety developed in England, renowned for its robust growth and well-rounded brewing qualities. This hop delivers a classic British character with a modern twist, making it a favourite for crafting beers that balance tradition with innovation.
How to Use First Gold
This hop is incredibly versatile, allowing brewers to create depth in both the bitterness and aroma of their beers. It works well in early boil additions for smooth bitterness, as a mid-boil addition for flavour, or as a late boil or dry hop to highlight its citrus and earthy notes.
- Bitter Hop: When used as a bittering hop, First Gold imparts a clean and refined bitterness that complements a variety of malt profiles, from pale to roasted malts.
- Aroma Hop: As an aroma hop, First Gold introduces subtle floral and citrus elements, along with hints of spice, making it ideal for adding complexity to the nose.
- Dry Hop: For dry hopping, First Gold brings out its distinctive orange and earthy undertones, perfect for English-style ales or giving a unique edge to lighter ales.
Flavour Profile
The flavour profile of First Gold is a harmonious blend of earthiness, spice, and citrus, with a refreshing orange zest character that makes it stand out.
Combining with Other Hops
First Gold pairs beautifully with other traditional English hops such as Fuggle and East Kent Goldings, and it can add a unique twist when blended with newer American varieties to create a fusion of old and new-world flavours.
Benefits of First Gold
This hop's versatility, ease of use, and balanced profile make it a go-to choice for brewers looking for consistency and adaptability across a range of beer styles.
Substitution:
- Substituting First Gold: First Gold can be substituted with similar hops like East Kent Goldings or Fuggle for maintaining traditional English character.
- First Gold as a Substitute: First Gold works well as a substitute for hops like Willamette, Styrian Goldings, or Perle, offering a comparable blend of floral, earthy, and citrus elements.
History:
Developed by Wye College in England, First Gold was one of the first dwarf hop varieties to gain popularity for its strong brewing potential and efficient growth. Its heritage as a descendant of Whitbread Golding Variety ensures it carries a classic British hop essence.
Key Features
Origin:
England
FLAVOUR PROFILE:
- Earthy
- Spicy
- Orange peel
HOP STATISTICS:
ACID COMPONENTS
Alpha Acids 6 – 10% w/w
Beta Acids 2.3 – 4.1% w/w
Cohumulone 29 - 36% of alpha acids
OIL COMPONENTS
Total Oil 0.7 – 1.5 mls/100 grams
Caryophyllene 6 - 7% of whole oil
Farnesene 1.5 - 4% of whole oil
Humulene 20 - 24% of whole oil
Myrcene 24 - 38% of total oil