From the German name for the Czech town of Zatec, Saaz is the major landrace variety of the hopyards of the Czech Republic and the quintessential noble hop. It accounts for over 80% of the total acreage in its home country. Indispensable for authentic Bohemian-style Pilsner, Saaz possesses a mild but distinctively quality that is equally at home in other pale lager styles as well as Belgian and farmhouse ales. The aroma is soft, pleasantly spicy and herbal with vivid woodsy, earthy, and dark floral character. Rootstock grown elsewhere doesn’t have the same range or balance as Czech flowers.
Hop Type: Aroma
Origin: Czech Republic
Alpha Acid: 3.0 - 6.0%
Similar Varieties: Crystal, Tettnang, Sterling
Common Styles: Traditional Pilsners, Wheat beers, Belgian-style Ales