Final answer:
Common descriptors for American hop varieties are 'resinous', indicating a bitter or pine-like flavor, and 'citrusy', suggesting a refreshing, fruity aroma; these characteristics make American hops well-suited to beer styles such as Pale Ales and Wheat Beers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two common descriptors for American hop varieties are resinous and citrusy. These terms describe the distinct aromas that American hop varieties contribute to the beer brewing process.
Hop varieties from the United States are typically characterized by their resinous properties, which makes them perfect for brewing American Pale Ales and India Pale Ales. This resinous characteristic provides a depth of flavor, and more importantly, a bitter balance to the sweetness of the malt. It gives off flavors closely resembling pine or spruce.
On the other hand, the descriptor citrusy hints toward a bright, refreshing, and tangy aroma, akin to fruits like grapefruit, lime, or mandarin. This quality makes American hops ideal for lighter and more aromatic beer styles such as Blonde Ales and Wheat Beers. Not all American hops are citrusy, but most cherished ones tend to possess this attribute.
The descriptors for American hop varieties can greatly vary based on the individual hop type, growing conditions, and the overall genetics of the specific hop variety. The art of blending these hop varieties to achieve the desired flavors and aromas is what turns brewing into a science and an art.
Learn more about American hop varieties