NZ Nectaron™ Hop Profile
Origin:
New Zealand
Developed by NZ Hops Ltd. after more than 17 years of breeding. A true modern darling, known for bold, expressive tropical and stone fruit.
Type:
Aroma hop (high impact for both flavor and dry hop)
Typical Alpha Acids:
9–12%
Beta Acids:
~6–7%
Aroma & Flavor Notes:
-
Tropical: Intense passionfruit, pineapple, mango
-
Stone Fruit: Peach, apricot, nectarine (hence the name)
-
Citrus: Sweet orange, lime zest
-
Pineapple: Specifically called out as one of the main punchy aromas
-
Other: Slight fresh pine, subtle guava, touch of grapefruit
Brewing Characteristics:
- Delivers a huge burst of ripe tropical, stone fruit, and citrus
- Known for “fruit juice” character, excellent for modern hazy, juicy styles
- Shines brightest in late additions and dry hopping
- Adds sweetness, juiciness, and aromatic complexity
Best Beer Styles:
- Hazy IPA / NEIPA / Juicy IPA
- Modern Pale Ale
- Session ale
- Fruited Wheat
- NZ-hopped Lagers with a big aromatic twist
Substitutes:
- Galaxy (passionfruit/tropical, but more peach/earth)
- El Dorado or Mosaic (for tropical intensity)
- Motueka (less intense, more citrus/herbal)
Fun Fact:
Nectaron™ is named for its “nectar” and “apricot/nectarine” punch. It’s a current favorite for breweries aiming for max fruit impact with real NZ character.
