Humulus U 2019 Recap

Last week in Yakima, Washington, RahrBSG held Humulus U 2019, a one-day hop symposium for professional brewers. Attendees were treated to seminars, talks, swag, tours, and food and drinks all around. Speakers for the event included:

Jeremy Moynier – Senior Manager of Innovation Program & Supply Chain, Stone Brewing

Ben Edmunds – Brewmaster, Breakside Brewery

Kevin & Jessica Riel – Double R Hop Ranches

Chad Kennedy – Hop Specialist, RahrBSG Hops 

The RahrBSG Hops facility was converted into a seminar hall for the day. Attendees were greeted with informative booklets and materials, as well as some unique RahrBSG branded swag and gifts. 

Attendees joined in on informative and entertaining seminars/talks from specialists in the field.

Brewers got the chance to explore the hops out in the field at Double ‘R’ Hop Ranches, and were taught about how different hops are harvested at different times. 

Post harvest, with a view of the Cascadian foothills in the background.

Brewers from around the country relaxed, networked, and enjoyed a variety of beers at the catered lunch.

Cheers! Beers from many award-winning breweries were enjoyed over great conversations.

Cut bines being loaded into the picker. 

Each hop farm has a unique set of equipment and processes. Double ‘R’ gave tours to explain how their family farm has sought out innovative ways to process hops.  

Brewers got an up-close look at how hops get from farm to glass. After the hops are harvested and taken off their bines, different machinery helps to separate out the hops from twigs and leaves. Hop cones are conveyed on a dribble belt, which separates cones from stems, leaves, & other plant matter.

Fresh hops being kilned at Double ‘R’ Hop Ranches.