Meet the Haute New Hops of 2013

Like pinwheel caps and Cosby sweaters, hops—the bitter flowers used to flavor some of your favorite beers—are forever going in and out of fashion. For a while, brewers couldn't get enough of super-citrusy Centennial (found in beers like Stone Ruination and Bell's Two-Hearted Ale), before being smitten by piney Simcoe. Then along came the white wine–like Nelson Sauvin and tropical Citra, which stole the hearts of brewers and beer lovers alike.

But craft brewers are a restless bunch. In their quest for novel flavors, they are forever seeking out new hops that they can use to transform familiar recipes, or use as building blocks for something entirely.

Curious about the eight of the hottest hops you'll be hearing about in 2013? Check out my full story at First We Feast.