Jester
Developed by Charles Faram and released in 2013, Jester® was bred to bring the punchy, fruit-forward characteristics of American hops to British soil. As a seedling of Cascade, it retains some of that classic citrus soul but adds a distinct UK terroir. It offers a robust bouquet of lychee, mango, and stone fruit, balanced by a resinous and slightly woody backbone. The name “Jester” reportedly stems from the initial disbelief that such a tropical-tasting hop could actually be grown in England—people thought the breeders were joking. It is a game-changer for British brewing, allowing for vibrant, high-impact IPAs and Pale Ales using local, sustainable ingredients.
Key Benefits
- “New World” Intensity: Provides the tropical and citrus punch typically associated with US varieties.
- Balanced Bitterness: Delivers a clean, moderate bitterness that doesn’t overwhelm the malt.
- Unique Berry Notes: Offers a signature blackcurrant and wild fruit edge not found in its US ancestors.
- Excellent for Dry Hopping: High levels of myrcene oil make it a powerhouse for cold-side aromatic additions.
Applications
- Brewing: Ideal for modern English IPAs, American-style Pale Ales, Golden Ales, and even fruity Stouts.
- Distilling: A fantastic botanical for contemporary gins seeking a tropical fruit and berry top note.
- Cider Making: Adds a complex “fruit-punch” layer to dry, crisp ciders.
- Winemaking: Can be used in botanical infusions for modern aperitifs requiring a zesty, fruity lift.
Typical Usage
- Aroma/Flavour: Traditionally added during the final 15–0 minutes of the boil or in the whirlpool to maximize tropical oils.
- Dry Hopping: 3–10g per litre to fully extract its signature grapefruit and lychee notes.
- Bittering: Can be used for full-boil additions, where it provides a mild, herbal, and complex bitterness.
Technical Data
- Alpha Acids: 7.0% – 9.0%
- Beta Acids: 4.0% – 6.0%
- Total Oil: 0.6 – 1.2 ml/100g
- Co-Humulone: 23% – 28% of alpha acids
- Myrcene: 45% – 50% of total oil
- Humulene: ~2% of total oil
Storage and Handling
Store in cold, dry conditions at temperatures between -1°C and 5°C. Jester® has good storage stability, but its volatile fruit esters are best preserved by keeping it in original vacuum-sealed, oxygen-barrier packaging. Use promptly after opening to ensure maximum aromatic impact.
Summary
Jester® is the definitive “British New World” hop, providing the bold tropical fruit and citrus intensity needed for modern craft styles while maintaining a refined, local character.


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