Here's everything you need to know to get you started on an epic brew with this fantastic hop.
Introducing NZ Rhapzody™: From Secret Project to Brewing Sensation
Originally known as CIP 014, NZ Rhapzody™ is the latest innovation from Clayton Hops that will revolutionize your beer game. Developed through the prestigious Clayton Innovation Program in partnership with the Bioeconomy Science Institute (formerly known as Plant & Food), this variety isn't just another hop on the block.
What makes NZ Rhapzody™ special?
- 🏝️ Explosive tropical fruit flavors that leap out of the glass
- 🧪 Sky-high thiol content for that coveted juicy character
- 🎯 Proven commercial success with early adopters already raving
The Experiment: Putting NZ Rhapzody™ to the Test
One brewer's quest to unlock the full potential of this tropical powerhouse
The Mission
Create a showcase beer that lets NZ Rhapzody™ shine solo – no supporting cast, no distractions. Just pure, unadulterated tropical hop magic paired with a thiol-releasing yeast to maximize impact.
The Brewing Blueprint
Foundation
- Wort: Simple and clean at 10°P
- Bittering: Light touch at 25 IBU (let the flavor hops do the talking!)
- Yeast: Thiol-releasing strain with 24-hour starter prep
The Hop Schedule That Changes Everything
| Day | Action | Rate | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 0 | First dry hop | 2g/L | 16°C |
| Day 3 | Second dry hop | 5g/L | 16–17°C |
| Day 5 | Final dry hop | 5g/L | 16–17°C |
Total Dry Hop Rate: 12g/L of pure NZ Rhapzody™ goodness
The Finishing Touch
- Complete fermentation with VDK rest
- Cold crash to 0°C with finings
- Carbonate in keg
- One week conditioning (patience pays off!)
The Moment of Truth: Sensory Results That Wow
🌟 The "Wow Factor" is Real
Aroma
"The aroma absolutely popped out of the glass"
Imagine cracking open a fresh passionfruit while standing in a tropical fruit market. That's NZ Rhapzody™ in your glass – bold, unmistakable, and captivating.
Flavour Profile
- Sweet tropical fruit that dances on your palate
- Distinct Sauvignon Blanc character – that sophisticated "thiol character" craft beer enthusiasts crave
- Juicy, mouth-coating texture that keeps you coming back for more
The Verdict: A Hop with Serious Potential
NZ Rhapzody™ isn't just living up to the hype – it's exceeding expectations. This variety brings something genuinely new to the table: a perfect storm of tropical intensity and thiol complexity that opens up exciting possibilities for brewers.
What's Next?
Seeing how creative brewers will push the boundaries with this tropical powerhouse.
Will it become the next Citra? The next Nelson Sauvin?
Time will tell, but one thing's certain – NZ Rhapzody™ is here to stay, and it's about to make waves in the craft beer world.
🍺 Ready to Brew with NZ Rhapzody™?
Keep your eyes peeled for availability after the upcoming harvest. This is one hop you don't want to miss.
