hopintensive

Hopintensive is a descriptive term used in brewing and beer criticism to indicate that a beer’s hop character is the primary driver of its aroma, flavor, and bitterness. In a hopintensive beer, hops contribute significantly across multiple sensory dimensions rather than merely providing a background note. The term is used informally and is not a standardized technical category in brewing guilds or dictionaries.

Brewing typically achieves hopintensity through a combination of techniques. Brewers may employ substantial hop additions during the late kettle or whirlpool phases, extensive dry hopping, and the use of high alpha acid hop varieties. The aim is to maximize essential oils and bitter compounds while preserving vibrant aroma. Hopintensive beers often exhibit strong tropical, citrus, pine, or resinous notes, with a pronounced bitterness that complements a sturdy malt backbone or, in some cases, a deliberately balanced, crisp finish.

The term is commonly applied to hop-forward styles such as IPAs, double IPAs, and other pale ales, but it can describe any beer where hops dominate the profile. While popular in modern craft beer, the descriptor remains subjective and context dependent, influenced by factors like fermentation, water chemistry, and age. Hopintensive beers typically benefit from fresh consumption, as hop-derived aromas and flavors can fade over time.

In summary, hopintensive characterizes beers where hops are the central element of aroma, flavor, and bitterness, achieved through strategic hopping practices and modern brewing techniques.