SL Cardinal Hop Profile
Origin
Country: Slovenia
Parentage: Modern Slovenian breeding program (Styrian-type lineage)
Type: Dual-purpose hop (excellent for both bittering and aroma)
Typical Alpha Acids
10–13%
Beta Acids
3–5%
Co-Humulone
23–30%
Aroma & Flavor Notes
Citrus: Bright orange and grapefruit zest notes
Fruity: Hints of red berries and stone fruit in some expressions
Herbal: Clean, green herbal character with light tea-like tones
Spicy: Soft, peppery spice in the background
Floral: Subtle blossom notes that round out the profile
Brewing Characteristics
Provides firm but smooth bitterness suitable for a wide range of styles
Works very well in late, whirlpool, and dry-hop additions for layered citrus-herbal aroma
Brings a modern twist to classic “old world” profiles—more punchy than traditional Styrian types
Versatile enough to stand alone or blend with US or NZ varieties for complex hop bills
Best Beer Styles
Pale Ales and IPAs (especially European-style or lower-ABV hoppy beers)
Hoppy Lagers and IPLs
Belgian Pale, Blondes, and Saisons
Amber Ales and Vienna-style Lagers
Wheat Beers and Kölsch-style beers
Substitutes
Styrian Wolf (for modern Slovenian citrus-forward character)
Mandarina Bavaria or Hallertau Blanc (for citrus/fruit-forward European hops)
Styrian Golding (if you want a softer, more traditional profile with less punch)
Fun Fact:
SL Cardinal is part of the new wave of Slovenian hops designed to bridge classic European balance with the brighter, more expressive citrus and fruit character craft brewers love—making it a great “bridge” hop between noble and New World styles.
