The bitter taste is derived from hops; however, due to the plant’s dislike of the warmer, drier weather in recent years, production has drastically decreased.
Hop genes are being isolated by researchers in Kent with the goal of creating more climate-change-resistant cultivars.
They also wish to create the stronger flavors that are currently in vogue.
Regarding the work, Shepherd Neame Brewery’s Danielle Whelan stated, “Without it, the British pint is going to die off.”
The characteristically bitter flavor that hops imparts to beer has also been impacted by warmer, drier weather. Furthermore, there is concern that the issue will only worsen as a result of climate change. Ramsgate Brewery’s head brewer, Eddie Gadd, said that it was already having an effect. “Climate change is very relevant to me,” he stated. “I get the majority of my hops from Kent, and over the last ten or twelve years, I’ve watched harvests fluctuate. It has truly been an incredible journey.
