To quote Jerry Seinfeld: “What’s the deal with Mosaic Hops?” Ok, maybe Jerry didn’t actually say that, but it seems like Mosaic hops are everywhere these days. They’ve been featured in numerous incredibly successful beers over the past few years, and their popularity only appears to be on the rise. So here’s the deal with Mosaic hops: they’re amazing. They truly are a next-level, new-school “wonder hop” variety that works magic when properly utilized. The following is a little background info and a list of currently-available beers that feature these beauties.

Mosaic has only been around since 2012, when they were first bred as a cross between Simcoe and some form of Nugget hops. 2012! That means that in less than four years’ time they’ve gone from nonexistent to possibly the most coveted hop in the market. Whoever named them “Mosaic” did a great job (they were originally called “Experimental Hop HBC 369”) because they impart an unbelievable array of aromas and flavors into the brew, including tropical fruit, pine, blueberry, citrus, and some herbal, earthy qualities. Because of this complexity they’re considered versatile enough to blend with most other hop varieties, but also hold their own when showcased.

Here’s a quick list of beers that heavily feature Mosaic hops. They’re all currently available at Zipps, so stop by this weekend to track a few of them down. Enjoy!

Fulton “300” – This Minneapolis-made IPA is made exclusively with Mosaic hops, so if you’re looking to hone in on their essence it’s a great starting point. Very well balanced and drinkable. 7% ABV.

Founders “Mosaic Promise” – This clean, dry, simple-yet-fantastic IPA is brewed with 100% Mosaic hops, as well as 100% Golden Promise malt. 5.5% ABV.

Great Lakes “Chillwave” – Chillwave is an intense, heavy, Double IPA that showcases the fruity character of the Mosaic hops. 9% ABV

Ballast Point “Grunion” – Grunion is a crushable pale ale that’s crisp and dry with gorgeous aromatics. It features a blend of Mosaic and Calypso hops. A mainstay in my fridge. 5.5%ABV.

Indeed “Let It Ride” – An aggressive MN-made IPA with a sturdy malt backbone, Let It Ride shows off Mosaic’s blending qualities with the addition of El Dorado and Calypso hops. 6.8% ABV.

Deschutes “Fresh Squeezed” – One of the most popular IPAs in the store, Fresh Squeezed keeps things tropical with a blend of Mosaic and Citra hops. 6.4% ABV.

Surly “Todd the Axe Man” – Just when the beer world thought that they had caught up, Surly came out with this blockbuster IPA. It’s a beautiful and intense beer made with Mosaic and Citra hops as well as Golden Promise malt. 7.2% ABV.

Rush River “Scenic Pale Ale” – This one is under the radar, so you’re extra cool if you drink it. At least I think I am. Scenic once again utilizes the popular combination of Mosaic and Citra hops, this time packed into an easy drinking 5% ABV Pale Ale.  Perfect patio beer.

Cheers!

-Shaughn