Bramling Cross Hop Pellets (UK)
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Bramling Cross Hops are a traditional English aroma variety offering a bold mix of blackcurrant, blackberry, and herbal spice, delivering old-world charm with unexpected fruity depth. Bramling Cross hops are an English hop variety developed in 1927 at Wye College in Kent, England,. They are a crossbreed between a traditional British hop, Bramling, and a wild Canadian hop. Officials at Wye College deny that this Bramling "cross" was a result of a wild night between a drunken Bramling hop and a "wild" Canadian hop.
Although Bramling Cross hops come to us from across the pond, the British describe this fine hop as having a distinctive “American” flavor and aroma. But what exactly does that mean? Well, just imagine a refined English gentleman saying that it offers “a spicy, citrus and lemony character with hints of black currant and pear.” Well, is that all? Would you like some Earl Grey to go with that? We’re not certain we’ve tasted that entire laundry list of flavors in Bramling Cross, but it does indeed have that “American” flavor and aroma, which makes it a fun all-around hop to play with in your regular favorites as well as your daring creations!
Its unique profile balances dark berry character with earthy, peppery undertones. Bramling Cross adds complexity to bitters, porters, stouts, and milds, perfect for English-style ales that benefit from a rich, layered finish.
If you're brewing a classic English ale or looking to introduce dark fruit notes into your recipe, Bramling Cross is a flavorful and distinctive choice.
Technical Details:
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Alpha Acids: 5.0%–7.0%
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Beta Acids: 2.0%–3.5%
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Total Oils: 0.7–1.3 mL/100g
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Usage: Aroma – late additions and dry hopping in traditional styles
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Substitutes: East Kent Goldings, Willamette, Styrian Goldings
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Ideal For: Bitter, Mild Ale, Porter, Stout, English Barleywine
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Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Bramling Cross Hops FAQ
What flavors does Bramling Cross add to beer?
Bramling Cross brings flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum, with earthy and spicy notes like cedar and allspice in the background.
Is Bramling Cross good for bittering?
While it can be used for light bittering in lower-gravity ales, Bramling Cross is best used as a late addition for its nuanced aroma and flavor.
What beer styles use Bramling Cross?
Traditional English styles like Bitters, Mild Ales, Porters, and Stouts benefit greatly from Bramling Cross. It also adds depth to English Barleywines and Christmas Ales.
What hops pair well with Bramling Cross?
Bramling Cross complements earthy hops like East Kent Goldings and Fuggles. For a fruitier twist, pair it with Willamette or Styrian Goldings.
Is Bramling Cross good for dry hopping?
Yes, dry hopping with Bramling Cross enhances its dark berry and herbal notes, especially in darker ales where fruity complexity is desired, such as in British-style ales.
