Smoke Taint

Observers report that smoke taint from wildfires may be less of issue than it was in 2020, while many varieties are having excellent crop years. One notable up-and-comer: Zappa.

Despite early warnings of climate change—with all its potential for volatility and disasters—growers in the Pacific Northwest say they may have a record harvest this year.

Last year’s wildfires had an unforeseen effect on the 2020 hop crop. The phenols involved have low volatility and high solubility, which means they transfer easily from hops to beer. Here’s what you need to know.