Columbus Citrus: CLS Farms Brewer’s Cut 2025

Columbus is one of the true pillars of American craft brewing. As part of the iconic “C hops,” it played a defining role in the rise of West Coast IPAs and helped establish the bold, hop-forward identity that shaped modern American beer.

Grown in Moxee, Yakima Valley, this Brewer’s Cut 2025 from CLS Farms shows why Columbus continues to be relevant far beyond its reputation as a high-alpha workhorse. When selected with intention, Columbus reveals an aromatic depth that makes it just as valuable late in the process as it is in the kettle.

Columbus and Aroma Transfer

In recent years, Columbus has become increasingly popular in late hopping and dry hopping, and for good reason. It has one of the highest known capacities for linalool extraction, transferring close to 49% of its total linalool into wort—around 2.5 times more than the average hop variety.

That efficiency makes Columbus a powerful tool for brewers seeking expressive aroma with structure and stability, especially in hop-forward styles.

About the Brewer’s Cut 2025

This CLS Farms Brewer’s Cut was selected from an early harvest, chosen specifically for its exceptional aromatic intensity.

The profile opens with a clear citrus-driven expression, bright and energetic, immediately setting the tone. Alongside the citrus, distinct notes of wild and red fruits bring complexity and a sense of freshness. The fruit character feels vivid and lifted, while resin appears in a more restrained role, adding depth without overwhelming the profile.

Pine and a subtle dank edge round out the aroma, reinforcing Columbus’ unmistakable American character while keeping the overall impression balanced and precise.

Sensory Profile Overview

This Columbus leans firmly into a modern yet classic expression:

• High-impact citrus aromatics

• Noticeable wild and stone fruit layers

• Resin and pine integrated rather than dominant

• A gentle dank note adding depth and identity

Floral and herbal notes stay minimal, allowing fruit, freshness, and structure to lead.

Brewing Applications

The CLS Farms Columbus Brewer’s Cut 2025 is an excellent choice for:

• West Coast IPAs that need clarity and backbone

• Modern American IPAs where aroma transfer is critical

• Late kettle and whirlpool additions

• Dry hopping when a firm, expressive base hop is needed

It works particularly well as a foundational hop, supporting more delicate or expressive varieties while still holding its own aromatically.

A Familiar Hop, Sharpened by Selection

Columbus has always been reliable. What this Brewer’s Cut proves is how much more the variety can offer when harvest timing and lot selection are treated as creative decisions.

This is Columbus with brightness, depth, and intention, a reminder that even the most classic hops can feel new again when chosen with care.