| Once the
kettle is full of this sweet liquid known as
"wort" (pronounced 'wert'), it is time for the
boil. The wort will be boiled for a minimum of 1 hour,
during which hops are added at timed intervals. Hops are
the flower that lend bitterness as well as spicy flavors
and aromas to the brew. The amount of bitterness or flavor imparted by each addition depends on what hop variety is used, how much is added, and how long it is boiled. Hops added at the beginning part of the boil impart more bitterness while hops added near the end of the boil impart more flavor and aroma. This is because the aromatic qualities of the hop are volatile and will be boiled off as a result of spending a long time in the kettle. |
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