de-bittered hops for a Lambic

[akr71]

I got Noble Grape to bring in a Wyeast Lambic Blend for me. I'll need to take some hops out of the freezer and let them age - how long do you thing it will take? I have a few odds and ends - used 1.5 ounces from a 2 oz bag, that sort of thing. Does it matter if its mixed varieties?

[BBrianBoogie]

Mixed varieties, especially noble hops, is fine. Wouldn't worry about aging them. Just hop to ~10-12 IBUs. The reason they do that has more to do with their antibacterial properties, so they add a lot of aged hops. Where you're using a cultured yeast/bacteria blend and not spontaneous fermentation it won't be an issue. This is one place where Noble Grape's awesome freshness comes in hand however if you want. I got some really old looking hops from them specifically for a Lambic.

[jeffsmith]

You might do well going to Amherst Homebrew. I know they normally carry Hallertau that are old as dirt.

[akr71]

You might do well going to Amherst Homebrew. I know they normally carry Hallertau that are old as dirt.

yeah, I bought some of theirs once, mostly out of pity. The place is for sale, but I don't see anyone buying any time soon. The gal there tried to talk me into it - I can't imagine selling wine kits 6 days a week will pay my mortgage, or the rent on the store.

[jeffsmith]

yeah, I bought some of theirs once, mostly out of pity. The place is for sale, but I don't see anyone buying any time soon. The gal there tried to talk me into it - I can't imagine selling wine kits 6 days a week will pay my mortgage, or the rent on the store.

She tried to hit me up for that the last time I was in to pick up some bottle caps. It's really a shame, but that's what happens when the majority of brewers in town are interested in cheapo beer and wine kits rather than good, fresh ingredients.