Hops not stored correctly

[Kmcogar]

I have some hops I bought about a year ago. I've never opened them but they were not stored properly. They were kept in the freezer for a while but I moved and they went with the shipping. They have been sitting In who knows what temperature for about 5 months. Still useable?

 

[IslandLizard]

If they're still in the original packaging, chances are they'll be OK. They may have lost some aroma and bittering potential.

When opening, take a look and smell them. If they are brown and/or smell cheesy, they're no good.

 

[TX_Brewing]

Although aren't the brown and cheesy hops good for some Belgian styles?

 

[filthyastronaut]

If they look and smell good, use them.

 

[Kmcogar]

Thanks guys! I'll be checking them out Sunday!

 

[MrHopScotch]

Although aren't the brown and cheesy hops good for some Belgian styles?

Are you thinking of lambics? I believe they often use aged hops for the low AA% because the acids in fresh hops can inhibit the growth of microbes desirable for souring.

 

[Kmcogar]

Well, I opened the hops tonight to get them ready for tomorrow. They smell super fresh still. I food saved them again to keep them fresh.