International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 381-393 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 383 In Germany, the significance of hops was solidified by the Bavarian Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot) of 1516, which mandated that only barley, water, and hops could be used in beer production. This regulation not only standardized beer quality but also promoted the widespread cultivation and use of hops in brewing (Moir, 2000). In the UK, however, hops were initially met with resistance and were even condemned as a "wicked and pernicious weed." It wasn't until 1524 that hops were first grown in England, marking the beginning of their acceptance and integration into British brewing practices (Moir, 2000). 3.2 The spread of hops to the Americas and Asia The dissemination of hops beyond Europe began with the colonization and exploration activities of European powers. Hops were introduced to North America by English and Dutch settlers in the early 17th century. The first hop gardens in North America were established around 1629, and by the 19th century, hop cultivation had spread to various regions, including New York and the Pacific Northwest (Moir, 2000; Kopp, 2014). In South America, the introduction of hops followed a similar pattern, with European immigrants bringing their brewing traditions and agricultural practices. The spread of hops to Asia occurred later, primarily during the 19th and early 20th centuries, as European colonial powers and traders introduced hops to regions such as India and China. The introduction of hops significantly impacted local brewing industries, leading to the development of new beer styles and the modernization of brewing techniques (Kopp, 2014; Cabras et al., 2023). 3.3 Industrialization and the development of hop cultivation worldwide The 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant advancements in hop cultivation and brewing technologies. The industrial revolution brought about technological innovations such as refrigeration and pasteurization, which revolutionized the brewing process and enabled the mass production of beer (Cabras et al., 2023). The establishment of scientific breeding programs, such as the one initiated at Wye College in England in 1904, led to the development of improved hop varieties with enhanced disease resistance and brewing qualities (Moir, 2000). The global expansion of hop cultivation was driven by the increasing demand for beer and the economic benefits of hop farming. By the mid-20th century, commercial hop growing had become established in many temperate regions worldwide, including North America, Europe, and parts of Asia and Oceania (Kopp, 2014). These developments not only transformed the hop industry but also had a lasting impact on modern brewing technologies, allowing for greater control over beer flavor, aroma, and stability (Moir, 2000; Cabras et al., 2023). The historical evolution and global dissemination of hops have been shaped by a combination of cultural, economic, and technological factors. From their early use in medieval Europe to their spread across continents and the industrialization of hop cultivation, hops have played a crucial role in the development of the global brewing industry. 4 The Role of Hops in Regional Brewing Styles 4.1 Application in traditional European beer styles Hops have been integral to traditional European brewing styles, significantly influencing the flavor profiles of beers from Belgium, Germany, and the UK. In Belgium, hops are essential in crafting the complex flavors of Belgian Abbey Ales, where they contribute to the balance of sweetness from malt and the fruity esters produced during fermentation. The use of specific hop varieties in these ales imparts subtle bitterness and aromatic qualities that are characteristic of this style (Schönberger and Kostelecky, 2011). In Germany, hops are a cornerstone of brewing, particularly in the production of lagers and pilsners. The German Purity Law historically mandated the use of hops, which not only provided bitterness but also acted as a natural preservative. The noble hop varieties, such as Hallertau and Tettnang, are renowned for their mild and aromatic properties, which are crucial in defining the clean and crisp taste of German beers (Schönberger and Kostelecky, 2011).
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