Ive decided to brew a blonde ale for a local competition in march and was thinking of using a perle hops. From what I’ve read I shouldn’t go too heavy on the late additions but I’m wondering if it would be better to mix the perle with Saaz or hallertauer? I think all perle would definitely be unique. Thoughts?
Blonde ale is a great opportunity to learn about hops. If you’re interesting in finding out what Perle hops taste like, go with all Perle. I’m sure it will turn out excellent.
Cool, thanks. I really want to get away from the hops I usually use. I may mix it with some saaz, not sure yet. The grain bill will be 2-Row and Vienna so I’ll see what my LHBS has in stock.
Saaz plays well with Perle. but a blonde with all perle would be good, How did you roll?
Decided to add some Saaz. I got to my LHBS and it basically stared me in the face when I went to open the hop fridge so I took that as a sign I should add it lol.
Just took a gravity reading and tasted the hydrometer sample. I am very pleased. It will make a tasty session beer.
I did a cream ale with all perle hops and loved them in it. Thinking of doing a pilsner with all perle.
What type of pils, hoping to hear German or CAP?
Update on this recipe.
This beer carbed up and was drinkable in less time than I expected, and it’s delicious. You get a little up front hop flavor from some late addition Perle/Saaz, but it’s not overpowering at all. It’s very smooth. The Vienna malt gives it some nice depth. The beer finishes really clean. I’ve let a few people try it and they really like it. At just over 4% ABV it’s a good session beer. Really happy with the way this one came out. I may tweak a few things next time, but I will definately brew it again.
I get alot of really earthy flavors with perle. Potting soil to be exact. I suggest a light hand unless you are familiar with this strain.
I used German Perle. My LHBS told me I’d get some odd flavors with American Perle. (Dirt and Mint i think were the terms he used).
It may be OK for you–as long as you’re not using 100% peated malt (reportedly tastes like an “open grave”)
Personally, I stay away from any hop described as “earthy”–I just don’t like the taste.