Czech researchers develop new drought-resistant hop varieties
The Story
Czech scientists at the Hop Research Institute have bred new hop varieties designed to withstand higher temperatures and drought, while preserving characteristics of the traditional Saaz hop. The work responds to recent droughts and heatwaves that have affected Saaz hops, a key ingredient in Czechia’s world-famous beer. New varieties such as Saaz Shine and Saaz Comfort are being tested by brewers.
Key Facts
- Czechia drinks more beer per capita than any other country.
- Recent droughts and heatwaves have affected Saaz hop growth.
- Hop Research Institute scientists have bred new drought-resistant varieties: Saaz Shine, Saaz Comfort, and others.
- About 80% of Czech Saaz yields go to breweries abroad.
- Only about 25% of Czech hop farms are irrigated.
- Higher temperatures and lack of water reduce cone quantity and alpha acid content.
- US brewery BarrieHaus Beer Co imports Saaz for its pilsner “Bublina,” which won the 2024 World Beer Cup.
- Jim Barrie, brewmaster, noted increased year-to-year variation and lower alpha acid levels; last crop was least appealing since 2019.
- Imports of Czech hops to the US dropped by roughly half after a severe drought in 2022.
- This spring is the driest in Czechia since record-keeping began in 1961.
- Earlier in May 2026, Vladimir Nesvadba unveiled a lager made from Saaz Shine at a Prague pub.
- Sardinian agronomist Federico Puddu studied with Nesvadba to develop hop varieties for hot, dry regions.
- Nesvadba stated the new varieties will not replace the original Saaz.
Conflicting Reports
No conflicting reports identified in the source article.
Still Unclear
The article does not specify the exact date of the new hop variety unveiling beyond “earlier this month” (May 2026). It also does not provide specific yield data for the new varieties or indicate when they will be widely available.
Misconceptions
No widespread misconceptions addressed in the source article.
Key Figures
- Dr Vladimir Nesvadba, top breeder at the Hop Research Institute
- Dr Pavel Donner, also of the Hop Research Institute
- Jim Barrie, brewmaster at BarrieHaus Beer Co in Tampa, Florida
- Federico Puddu, Sardinian agronomist
Sources: The Guardian
