The invisible in beer: what you feel, but it’s not there, herbal.

The green side of beer

There is beer that looks fresh, almost green, with that touch that resembles herbs, leaves, or even tea. And here comes the question: “Is there any weed here?” Most of the time, no.

This herbal sensation can come from the hops, especially depending on the variety and the moment it is added to the process. Some aromatic hop compounds, such as terpenes and other essential oils, create notes that resemble fresh grass to more complex herbs. But that’s not all.

The interaction between hops, yeast, and fermentation also shapes this perception. That is, it is not an isolated ingredient; it is a set. What you feel is not necessarily something that has been placed.

It’s something that was built. What about you? Have you ever felt this herbal side in beer?

In the next episode: the unexpected freshness of the green apple.

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Maria Anita Mendes Beer Sommelier | PhD in Sciences Author of the Newsletter between the foam and the molecule