For those who have never tried a hop lemonade – it’s time to do so. Why? Because hop has become a rising star in the non-alcoholic sector which is more than just an “urban drink” occurrence.
Here are 5 points why it is worth to take a sip of a sparkling and slightly tart, yet incredibly refreshing hop lemonade:
1. Why hop?
Hops are the green cone-shaped flowers of the “Humulus lupulus” plant.
Due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties hop was already used in the ancient world as an elixir. Its value as an ingredient for beer-brewing was explored much later in the middle ages. Today, hop is commonly known for its compensatory-calming effects.
Did you know that hop belongs to the family of “Cannabaceae”? Which is related to the hemp plant?
Hops are the green cone-shaped flowers of the “Humulus lupulus” plant.
“Lupus” actually means “wolf” supposedly saying that (as a climbing perennial) the hop engulfs everything else while growing and thus “murder” every other plant.
2. Which kind of hop?
Basically, hops differ between two types: Bittering hop and aroma hop. The first one is – as the name suggests – responsible for the bitterness (as you probably know from beer). The bitterness comes from the alpha acids originating from “lupulin” inside of each hop cone. Aroma hops contain a much more pronounced spectrum of aromas than it is the case with bitter hops. This results in hop variations which are responsible for e.g. a bloomy or fruity flavour (as you probably know from craft beers).
In order to create a hop lemonade we recommend using bittering hop due to its light-stable properties.
The alpha acids are the principal components in lupulin, the resin of the hop cone. The alpha acid composition therefore informs how bitter the hop is. The higher its percentage the more bitter the hop.
3. Why not beer?
“I’d like to have a good drink without alcohol.”
Trends have shown that consumers tend to enjoy more and more non-alcoholic beverages. Nevertheless, the indulgence of having a tasty drink is as important as if it was an alcoholic one.
“I keep a healthy lifestyle.”
The harassment of the pandemic resulted in a huge trend towards functional foods. Waters, boosting the immune system, yoghurt with added vitamins or similar products with additional functions alongside a good taste already attained supermarket’s shelves.
Hop actually contains essential oils and loads of secondary phytonutrients, such as
● Xanthohumol
● Flavonoids &
● Antioxidants
These phytonutrients reduce the risk of cancer and/or have positive impact on the immune system.
“After having a full day of work I just want to relax.”
As mentioned before hop has a soothing effect on the human body. In a world full of notifications, “staying alwalys online” and insomnia consumer are struggling to find relaxation throughout the day. So why not combining drinking a good lemonade while having the chance to distress? Another point goes to hop lemonade.
“I want a tasty lemonade less sweet.”
Hop lemonades won’t impress because of no alcohol and low calories. Instead – let’s talk about the flavour: Hop is well-known and popular for its bitter taste. That comes from “lupulin” inside of each hop cone which additionally has huge influence in aroma and flavour in beer.
Hop lemonades benefit from the trend towards bitter tastes – similarly as the tonic boom has proven.
Last but not least he botanical also tastes slightly tart, resulting in a soft hint of naturalness while tasting.
“At a time when many consumers are turning to sparkling water beverages and non-alcoholic alternatives, a handful of brands are creating alcohol-free offerings with hop-forward flavors to offer a unique yet also familiar drinking experience.” Trendhunter
4. Which hop lemonade mix?
Please keep in mind that hop lemonades belong to a niche. Yet, we’ve tested several hop types and combinations, such as lemon, grapefruit or maracuja with hop. And yes, we’ve created some really good concepts which you will definitely love! Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to share further insights with you.
5. Why still waiting?
Sales figures of low- or non-alcoholic drinks confirm that hop products seem to become more and more appealing to consumers – so why still waiting? There is no point to loose time: So if you’re interested in creating a trendy beverage called hop lemonade, drop us a message: