isohumulone

What is Hop Isomerization in Beer Brewing?

by Brad Smith on August 21, 2021 · 3 comments

This week I take look at hop isomerization in beer brewing and how it applies to brewers. Isomerized alpha acids in beer are the primary bittering compound used to offset the sweetness of the malt in beer. What is Isomerization? Isomerization is a process where a molecule is transformed into another molecule that contains the […]

Skunky Beer – Light-Struck Off Flavors in Home Brewing

by Brad Smith on March 21, 2017 · 2 comments

A common off flavor in both commercial and home brewed beers is a skunky “light-struck” flavor and aroma. It can give your beer a strong skunky aroma and make it most unpleasant to drink. The Cause of Skunky Beer Skunky beer occurs when beer is exposed to light. Some of the compounds in hops remain […]