Hallertauer Blanc

Shrouded in secrecy, well maybe not so secret, we have been testing out a new hop variety called Hallertauer Blanc donated to us by our friend Mike Murphy at Lervig Aktiebryggeri. The grist was about as easy as they come – 96% Belgian pilsner and 4% Crystal 150 EBC. About 100 grams of hops were used in 20 liters. Since we were focusing on the hops we used most of it in the latter portion of the boil and for dry hopping. Fermentation was done on the cool side with WLP001.

Nelson Sauvin – move over
The result was a fruity, tart and crisp ale weighing in at 5.3%, with a tropical aroma and flavor with hints of grapes, gooseberry and grapefruit. The Hallertauer Blanc reminded the tasters of Nelson Sauvin. Finally, a substitute for that hop! Good news for both home and pro brewers.

A nice healthy and cool fermentation

And who were the tasters? None other than the fine folks at Lervig Aktiebryggeri. The hop flavor tickled their collective fancy and an order was placed with the hop farm.

Can I get a taste?

Share the love – that’s what we say. The ale, named Point Blanc, will be shipped to Bjorleik 2012, and the attendees there will get first dibs on the ale. The rest will probably be served up at Mandag i Annen at Cardinal. Not going to any of these events? Contact Kim and we’ll see if we can fix you up with some.

Happy brewing!