HOPBACK Meaning and
Definition
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A hopback is a device commonly used in the brewing industry, specifically in the beer-making process. It is essentially a vessel designed to infuse beer with additional hop flavors and aromas. The hopback is typically constructed of stainless steel and is shaped like a large cylindrical chamber with inlet and outlet valves.
Once the hops have been boiled in the brewing process, they are transferred into the hopback before the beer is sent for fermentation. The hot beer flows into the hopback and passes through a bed of fresh hops. This allows the beer to extract additional hop oils, resins, and aromas, intensifying the beer's hop character.
The purpose of using a hopback is to enhance the hop flavors and aromas without contributing bitterness. The hop oils and resins released during this process add depth and complexity to the beer, creating a more enjoyable drinking experience.
The size and design of hopbacks can vary depending on the brewery's specific needs and preferences. Some breweries use hopbacks as a separate vessel while others integrate them into their brewing systems. These devices have become increasingly popular among craft breweries and homebrewers as they offer a way to intensify hop profiles and experiment with different hop varieties.
Etymology of HOPBACK
The word "hopback" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "hop" and "back".
1. Hop: It originates from the Old English word "hopian" which means "to hop" or "to dance". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "hupōną" meaning "to hop" or "to leap". This word is also related to the Old Norse word "hoppa", the Middle Low German word "hōpen", and the Dutch word "hoppen", all of which share similar meanings.
2. Back: It comes from the Old English word "bæc" meaning "the upper side of an animal". It is rooted in the Proto-Germanic word "bakam" which signifies "back" or "spine".
