Late Hopping Question

[kcmobrewer]

Hello, just wondering if anyone has any experience comparing the taste of hops added at 15 mins or less to the boil versus a steep/whirlpool?

I know there will be a bitterness amount, and possibly perception, difference. Just curious if my desired bitterness is already achieved by my 60/90 min addition, is there a difference in flavor if I add them at 15-0 mins or steep/whirlpool them for a given time?

Thanks!

 

[bigdaddybrew]

I get more hop aroma by putting them in the whirlpool. I even wait until it cools to about 150f. It think is just enough heat to release the oils, avoid any additional bittering, and prevents any grassy aromas.

 

[zwiller]

I have done many tests with hop stands and I think the main difference between late additions and hop standing is aroma but I do think there is a flavor difference as well. It is probably the interaction from the increased aroma since smell and taste senses are intertwined. I think a hop stand is fresher tasting and more refined than a late addition.