Columbus Citrus: Inside the 2025 Brewer’s Cut from Moxee

Few hop varieties are as deeply woven into the history of American craft beer as Columbus. Part of the iconic “C-hops,” it played a key role in shaping the rise of West Coast IPAs and remains a cornerstone for brewers looking for power, structure, and unmistakable American character.

This 2025 Brewer’s Cut of Columbus Citrus, grown in Moxee, Yakima Valley, is a clear example of why this variety continues to matter, and why careful selection elevates it far beyond its reputation as a purely bittering hop.

Columbus Beyond Bitterness

Traditionally known for its high alpha acids and firm bitterness, Columbus has increasingly found its place in late hopping and dry hopping. The reason is simple: its exceptional ability to transfer aromatic compounds into wort and beer.

Columbus is one of the varieties with the highest known linalool extraction capacity, transferring close to 49% of total linalool into wort, roughly 2.5 times the average. This makes it especially valuable for modern brewing techniques, where aroma intensity and stability are key.

About the 2025 Brewer’s Cut

This Brewer’s Cut comes from an early-harvest selection, chosen specifically for its unusually high aromatic intensity.

The profile opens with a bold citrus explosion, bright and expressive, immediately setting the tone. Alongside the citrus, clear notes of wild and red fruits add complexity and depth, giving the aroma a layered, almost juicy quality. Fresh fruit character leads the experience, while resin stays present but restrained, acting as a supporting element rather than dominating the profile.

The result is a Columbus that feels vibrant and dynamic, yet balanced, powerful without being aggressive.

Sensory Profile Highlights

This lot leans decisively into the classic yet modern Columbus spectrum:

• High citrus intensity, fresh and energetic

• Noticeable wild and stone fruit notes adding dimension

• Resin and pine present but well integrated

• A subtle dank edge that reinforces its American identity

There’s very little floral or herbal expression here; instead, the focus is on freshness, fruit, and depth.

Why Brewers Choose This Cut

The 2025 Brewer’s Cut of Columbus Citrus is especially well suited for:

• West Coast IPAs that need citrus drive and structure

• Modern American IPAs looking for intensity without muddiness

• Late kettle, whirlpool, and dry hop additions where aroma transfer matters

• Blends where Columbus acts as a backbone hop, supporting more delicate varieties

Its ability to deliver both punch and precision makes it a versatile tool in hop-forward recipes.

A Classic Hop, Sharpened by Selection

Columbus has always been a workhorse. What this 2025 Brewer’s Cut shows is how much more the variety can offer when harvest timing and lot selection are treated as creative decisions, not just logistical ones.

This is Columbus with clarity, energy, and depth, a reminder that even the most familiar hops can still surprise when chosen with intention.