Beer/Hops

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Question

Unknown Variety
I live in the northern central part of Saskatchewan and have a hops plant growing in my yard.  I would like to know what kind it is and if I can use it in my beer.  I am making a brown ale right now and would like to incorporate a little more bitterness.  I find home made beer just a bit too sweet.  I am enclosing a couple of photos for you to look at.

Answer
I can't make a complete judgement,from that picture.The cone is not fully finished growing.I would guess it could be a Willamette,as the cone,so far is medium round,and light.If so that is an aroma hop.A finished cone has thin layers one on top of another.Cones must be dried before using.When full grown and layered take one of the cones,and rub it open.Yellowish color should be noted,then smell it,for aroma intensity.If that is the variety,it wouldn't help you with your bitterness increase.
                      Sorry I couldn't be more definitive


                             John

John Snyder

Expertise

I will answer questions about the brewing of beer,it`s process flow,quality control,and raw materials used in the brewing process.Brewing calculations, recipe formulations,and solving of brewing,fermenting, storage and finishing problems,will also be answered

Experience

41 years in the beer industry,with 20 years as Brewmaster;10 years as brewing Chemist

Education/Credentials
B.S.in chemistry.Brewmasters degree.Sensory training

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