In the serene landscapes of Scandinavia, where the art of brewing meets the challenges of a changing climate, a transformative journey is unfolding. At its heart lies a profound shift towards sustainable brewing practices—embodied by the adoption of resilient hop varieties. More than enhancing flavors, this transition represents a proactive initiative to alleviate pressures on traditional growers while bolstering a dependable supply chain for brewers and farmers alike.
The Climate Challenge: Why Sustainable Hops Matter
As global temperatures climb, traditional hop varieties confront mounting obstacles such as diminished yields and heightened vulnerability to pests. In response, our collaboration the Hop Research Centre has ushered in a new era of German hops specifically tailored for warmer climates. These varieties demand less water and exhibit robust resistance against pests and diseases, offering a dual benefit: safeguarding brewing traditions and supporting agricultural sustainability in an era defined by environmental flux.
Åben Bryggeri: Redefining Pilsner with Tango and Ariana Hops
Our adventure begins at Åben Bryggeri, nestled in the bustling centre of Copenhagen’s meat packing district. Here, we teamed up with Jack Delaney to reimagine their flagship pilsner, ‘Birch’. Departing from the usual roster of Mittelfrüh, Perle, and Tettnang hops, we embraced modern, sustainable German varieties - Tango and Ariana. These hops promise not just a refreshing twist to Birch but also embody a commitment to sustainability in the face of climate change.
Åben Bryggeri
Åben Bryggeri
Åben Bryggeri
Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri: A Sustainable Twist on Tradition with Nynäshamn Nölsch
Continuing northward, we arrived at Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri, a beacon of Sweden’s brewing heritage since 1988. Here, amidst the quaint port town south of Stockholm, we collaborated on Nynäshamn Nölsch, a beloved Kölsch-style beer. Though the Kölsch-style beer might not have been brewed in view of Cologne’s Cathedral, it was brewed with Nynäshamns Kyrka in view from the brewery, hence the name Nynäshamn Nölsch. By infusing Bamberg Pils malt with Ariana and Callista hops, we not only honoured tradition but also embraced sustainable practices crucial for the future of brewing.
Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri
Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri
Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri
Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri
Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri
Poppels Bryggeri: Innovating NEIPA with Sustainable and Liquid Hops
Our Scandinavian journey concluded at Poppels Bryggeri, founded in 2012 by beer enthusiasts driven by a passion for quality and innovation. Here, we embarked on crafting a classic hazy NEIPA, blending Galaxy hops from Australia with Tango and Spectrum HBC 1019, the first time HBC 1019 has been transformed into Spectrum, our flowable liquid dry hopping ingredient. This flavorful concoction promises a burst of tropical and citrus notes, a testament to Poppels’ commitment to pushing boundaries while embracing sustainability.
Poppels’ Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Beyond crafting exceptional beers, Poppels Bryggeri leads by example in sustainability practices—leveraging wind energy, recycling brewing byproducts, and championing lightweight, recycled glass bottles. Their participation in the Beverage Industry’s Climate Initiative underscores a holistic approach to minimizing environmental impact.
Poppels Bryggeri
Poppels Bryggeri
Poppels Bryggeri
Poppels Bryggeri
Poppels Bryggeri
Reflections on the Scandinavian Collaboration Journey
As we reflect on our Scandinavian odyssey with BarthHaas, each brewery collaboration underscores a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation. From Denmark’s Aabenbryg to Sweden’s Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri and Poppels Bryggeri, the journey has been a testament to the power of partnership in shaping a more sustainable future for brewing. Together, we’re not just brewing beer; we’re brewing a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
We would like to give a special thanks to Åben Bryggeri, Nynashamns Angbryggeri, Poppels Bryggeri for working so closely with us on this project and their kind hospitality during our visits and also a special thanks to Baltic Brewing Supplies for making these collaborations possible.
Join Us at Brewskival: Taste and Learn About Sustainable Hops
The three collaboration beers will be pouring at Brewskival this August, where attending breweries can taste the beers, talk to BarthHaas and the brewers, and learn more about how they can begin using sustainable hop varieties from BarthHaas, alleviating pressure on hop farmers.
Get Involved in Sustainable Brewing
Interested in exploring sustainable hop varieties for your next brew? Contact BarthHaas today to start your journey toward environmentally friendly brewing practices.
Join the Collaboration Movement
Would you like to collaborate with BarthHaas on a project similar to our Scandinavian adventure? Reach out to us and discover how we can work together to create exceptional beers while promoting sustainability and efficiency in the brewing industry.