Florida isn’t exactly the first place that comes to mind when you think of hops. Historically, this essential beer ingredient has been grown in cooler climates like the Pacific Northwest or Europe. Yet, the University of Florida (UF) has turned conventional wisdom on its head by successfully growing hops in the Sunshine State. This breakthrough is set to shake up the craft beer world, especially for Florida’s growing brewing community.
Curious about how hops made their way into Florida’s soil and what this means for local beer enthusiasts? Let’s dig in.
What Are Hops, and Why Do They Matter?
First, a quick primer for those new to the beer world. Hops are the flowering cones of the hop plant, and they’re a critical component in beer-making. They provide bitterness to balance the sweetness of malt, act as a natural preservative, and most importantly, contribute aromatic flavors ranging from citrusy to earthy.
Yet, hops are notoriously particular about where they grow. They typically thrive in areas between the 35th and 55th parallels north and south of the Equator. That’s why Florida’s unpredictable climate, with its heat and humidity, has historically been considered unsuitable for hop farming. But never underestimate the determination of scientists and beer enthusiasts.
How UF Scientists Took on the Challenge
Back in 2015, the team at the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Gulf Coast Research and Education Center began experimenting with hop farming. Their goal? To determine whether hops could not only grow but thrive in Florida’s less-than-ideal conditions.
Fast forward to today, and it’s clear they’ve cracked the code. The breakthrough came through selecting resilient hop varieties that could adapt to Florida’s climate, coupled with innovative growing techniques like using LED lighting for off-season production and fine-tuning irrigation systems to combat the humidity.
Unique Traits of Florida-Grown Hops
Much like wine, hops have a terroir—that special combination of soil, climate, and other environmental factors that shape their flavor. Florida-grown hops, according to brewers who’ve tested them, have some unique and unexpected flavor profiles.
- Tasting Notes: These hops bring out sweet, tropical notes like honeydew melon, pineapple, and even a surprising hint of sweet melon. This tropical twist is far from what you’d find in other growing regions, such as the Pacific Northwest, where hops often highlight piney or citrusy flavors.
- Fresh and Local: For Florida brewers, the appeal goes beyond flavor. Local hops mean reduced transport time, ensuring the freshest brewing ingredients possible.
Breweries Putting Florida Hops to Work
UF’s success hasn’t been confined to the lab. Over 19 microbreweries across Florida have already created more than 5,000 gallons of beer using hops grown at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Breweries like Cypress & Grove Brewing in Gainesville and Sideward Brewing in Orlando have showcased how local hops can elevate craft beer flavors.
Beyond just using whole cones in their early stages, UF has advanced its production capabilities to offer hop pellets to brewers. These pellets are easier to store, have a longer shelf life, and improve the beer’s flavor extraction processes. The shift has sparked even greater interest from local breweries and is paving the way for wider adoption of Florida-grown hops.
Why This Matters to Craft Beer Fans Like You
- Support Local Agriculture
By prioritizing Florida-grown hops, breweries are reducing their carbon footprint and supporting the local economy. Every sip of beer brewed with these hops contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly brewing ecosystem.
- Unique Beer Flavors
If you’re the type of craft beer fan who loves exploring unique and experimental brews, Florida-grown hops open the door to flavors you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
- A Boost to the Florida Beer Scene
With over 390 craft breweries in Florida, the state’s craft beer scene is already booming. Local hops will deepen the connection between breweries and the communities they serve, delivering better beer and perhaps inspiring exciting collaborations.
The Future of Florida Hops
UF scientists are just getting started. Their long-term goal is to establish commercial hop farming in Florida, encouraging local farmers to diversify their crops and tap into this budding market. By optimizing yield and quality, UF hopes to make Florida hops not just a novelty but a staple in the craft beer world.
What does this mean for beer lovers? You’ll likely start seeing more brews labeled with “Florida-grown hops” on taproom menus or bottle labels. It’s more than just a marketing gimmick; it’s a testament to the innovation driving both brewing and farming in the state.
The next time you crack open a cold one, consider the story behind it. Craft beer is as much about supporting creativity and local efforts as it is about flavor. And in the case of Florida-grown hops, it’s a testament to what happens when passion and science meet over a shared love of beer.