RipeLocker storage vessels, maintaining hops at 32°F and preserving them for over 50 days. This innovation allows for more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable shipping methods, extending the usability of fresh hops and smoothing seasonal supply fluctuations. Brewers have reported exceptional freshness and quality from RipeLocker-stored hops, indicating the significant potential of this technology to enhance brewing practices and market reach.
Max Shafer, Brewmaster of the Pure Madness Brewery Group (Roadhouse Brewing & Melvin Brewing), recently shared that the brewery receive their fresh hops directly from Yakima Chief Hops or Mill 95 with RipeLocker.
Q: Why is fresh hop freshness important for a brewer?
SHAFER: As freshly picked hops begin to degrade, we have found the hops begin to impart a harsh grassy or vegetal note to our beers. Getting hops picked at the right time, and quickly is important to getting the perfect flavor and aroma from wet hops.
Q: Why is fresh hop availability important for a brewer?
SHAFER: It allows brewers the chance to present unique hoppy beers to the customer. It is also just downright fun and the best time of year to brew!
Q: What do you see as an unforeseen benefit of being able to store fresh hops for longer?
SHAFER: It allows us to extend the ‘fresh hop brewing season longer.’ Now we are able to offer fresh hopped beers to people months after harvest. The other unforeseen benefit which attracted me to RipeLocker was being able to use multiple varieties in a single brew – especially ones that have different pick windows!
Q: Have you gotten any feedback from customers about the difference between a fresh hop vs a non-fresh hop beer?
SHAFER: Customers love drinking wet-hopped beers because they are just fun. It is really like a celebration for folks.
Q: What advice would you give other brewers about using more fresh hops for their beers?
SHAFER: Go for it! It is a ton of fun and RipeLocker makes it possible for anyone to use fresh hops!!
Be the first to comment