Strata Hop Pellets
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Strata Hops were developed by Indie Hops in collaboration with Oregon State University’s hop-breeding program. Originally labelled X-331, it stems from an open-pollinated Perle and has grown into a hop variety known for layered aroma and flavor.
At lower usage levels (late kettle additions or moderate dry-hop), Strata delivers clean herbal and grassy notes with a subtle earthiness. As you increase its use, especially in whirlpool or heavy dry-hopping, it evolves toward vivid fruit and resinous character: think strawberry, passionfruit, mango or melon up front, then grapefruit, citrus, and a gentle “cannabis/dank” tone in the background (without the harsh catty edge of some dank hops).
Because of this flexibility, you can use Strata as a more restrained aroma hop in lighter beers (Pale Ale, Kölsch, lager) where it adds a clean brightness, or go bold in IPAs and hazy styles where its full fruit-plus-resin profile shines.
Technical Details:
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Alpha Acids: 12.0%–15.0%
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Beta Acids: 5.0%–6.0%
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Total Oils: 2.3–3.5 mL/100g
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Usage: Aroma-forward – expressive dry hop and late addition standout
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Substitutes: Galaxy, Mosaic, El Dorado
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Ideal For: IPAs, NEIPAs, Pale Ales, Hoppy Lagers, Experimental Styles
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Country of Origin: United States (Oregon)
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Strata Hops FAQ
Where does Strata come from? Strata was developed by Indie Hops and Oregon State University, bred from an open-pollinated Perle hop in Oregon. It’s the first commercial release from their aroma hop breeding program and has quickly become a darling of the craft beer world.
What do Strata hops taste like? Strata delivers a combination of flavors: passionfruit, strawberry, grapefruit, and tropical melon, all wrapped in a pungent, herbal dankness often described as “cannabis turned to 11, dude.” It’s juicy, loud, and layered.
What beer styles are ideal for Strata hops? Strata shines in hop-forward styles like IPAs, NEIPAs, and Pale Ales, but its complexity also makes it a fun variation in Lagers, Kölsch, and even experimental sours or hybrids.
Can I dry hop with Strata? Only if you want great beer. Strata was practically made for dry hopping. Its high oil content and expressive aroma profile make it a go-to for late additions and dry hop charges that demand attention.
What hops are similar to Strata? If Strata’s not available, consider Galaxy, Mosaic, or El Dorado. Each of these hops brings a mix of tropical fruit and dankness, though none quite match Strata’s layered intensity.
Pro Tip: Want to punch up tropical fruit and dank complexity to your next IPA or give your Pale Ale a modern twist? Of course you do. Strata will give you that bold aroma and flavor you crave.
