Open-Source Hops: Eric Sannerud and the Case for Public Varieties

Summary

In this episode of 'Why This Beer', hosts Azlan Graves and Darren Binnema engage with Eric Sannerud, a passionate advocate for hops and agriculture. They explore the intricate relationship between beer and agriculture, emphasizing the importance of local ingredients and the stories behind them. Eric shares his journey in the hops industry, the significance of public hops versus proprietary varieties, and the challenges of maintaining hop quality.

The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of craft beer and the need for brewers to connect with their ingredients and the stories they tell. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of hop quality, the rise of new hop varieties like Vista, and the importance of aroma in brewing. They discuss the impact of big breweries on hop selection, the current golden age of hops, and the challenges of sustainability in the industry.

The conversation also touches on the marketing of hops and the relationships between brewers and suppliers, culminating in personal reflections on the evolving landscape of beer and hops.

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