Variety of hop pellets and fresh hop cones on a wooden surface

A Guide to Hop Varieties: Which Hops Should You Use?

What Do Hops Actually Do?

Hops are one of the four core ingredients in beer, serving two main purposes: bitterness and aroma. Hops added early in the boil contribute bitterness that balances the sweetness of the malt. Hops added late — or during dry hopping — contribute aroma and flavour with very little bitterness.

Alpha Acids and IBUs

The bitterness of hops comes from their alpha acid content. High-alpha hops (12%+) are used for bittering; low-alpha hops (3–7%) are better for aroma. IBUs (International Bitterness Units) measures the bitterness of the finished beer.

Bittering Hops

  • Target (T90 Pellet) — a classic British bittering hop with clean, firm bitterness. Widely used in traditional ales and bitters.
  • Bullion (T90 Pellet) — one of the earliest high-alpha hops, with rich blackcurrant-like character. Great for dark ales and stouts.
  • Summit (T90 Pellet) — a high-alpha American hop with citrus and tangerine notes. Excellent in IPAs and barleywines.

Aroma Hops

  • Willamette (T90 Pellet) — earthy, floral, and slightly spicy. Versatile and great for British-style ales.
  • Centennial (T90 Pellet) — strong floral and citrus notes. Excellent in American pale ales and IPAs.
  • Citra (T90 Pellet) — intense tropical fruit aromas — passion fruit, lime, gooseberry. A must-try for any hop-forward beer.

Choosing the Right Hops for Your Beer Style

Pellet Hops vs Whole Hops

At Brewco.uk we stock T90 pellet hops — the most practical format for home brewing. Pellets store well, are easy to measure, and integrate cleanly into the brew. Browse our full range: Citra, Centennial, Willamette, Target, Bullion, and Summit.

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