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How Hop Oils Mimic Aroma in Non-Alcoholic Beer
Non-alcoholic beers can taste just as aromatic as regular beers, thanks to hop oils. These natural extracts from hops recreate the floral, fruity, and citrusy aromas found in traditional beers, even without alcohol. Here’s how brewers make it happen:
- Hop oils contain compounds like monoterpenes and esters, which bring out floral, fruity, and spicy notes.
- Alcohol normally dissolves and retains these aromas, but in non-alcoholic beer, brewers use advanced techniques like cryogenic fermentation and emulsification.
- Tools like gas chromatography and aroma wheels help ensure consistent, high-quality scents.
- Brands like IMPOSSIBREW® are leading the way, using hop oils and botanical blends to create award-winning non-alcoholic beers.
Hop oils are transforming the non-alcoholic beer industry, making these beverages flavourful and aromatic, without relying on alcohol.
Hop Oil Brewing Experiment - Using Hop Oils for Enhanced Aroma
Hop Oils: Components and Functions
Hop oils play a key role in shaping the aroma of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beers.
Main Aroma Compounds
Hop oil aromas come from different chemical families, each contributing a distinct scent and flavour.
| Compound Family | Aroma Profile | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Monoterpenes | Floral, citrus | Light lagers, pale ales |
| Sesquiterpenes | Woody, spicy | Dark ales, stouts |
| Esters | Fruity, sweet | Wheat beers, IPAs |
| Thiols | Tropical, zesty | Modern craft styles |
These compounds are especially important in non-alcoholic brewing, where the usual fermentation process presents unique hurdles. For example, IMPOSSIBREW®'s Enhanced Lager uses cryogenic fermentation to preserve these aroma compounds while staying alcohol-free.
Since hop oils behave differently in non-alcoholic systems, brewers must adapt their methods to achieve the desired flavour and aroma.
Regular vs Non-Alcoholic Beer
In traditional beers, alcohol helps dissolve and retain aroma compounds. Non-alcoholic beers, however, require alternative methods to achieve a similar effect.
IMPOSSIBREW® tackles this challenge with its Social Blend™, a formula designed to enhance the sensory experience. This approach has earned IMPOSSIBREW® Lager & Pale recognition as the UK's best non-alcoholic beers at the World Beer Awards 2023 [1].
Understanding how hop oils behave in different brewing conditions is key to recreating the rich, complex aromas found in traditional beers.
Hop Oil Extraction Methods
In non-alcoholic brewing, extracting and adding hop oils with precision is crucial. Modern techniques make it possible to extract delicate hop oils while maintaining consistency in flavour and aroma.
Extracting Oils from Hops
Brewers rely on a variety of methods to extract hop oils, each designed to highlight specific aroma characteristics. While steam distillation is still widely used, newer methods like CO₂ extraction operate at lower temperatures, which helps preserve sensitive compounds. Other techniques, such as cold pressing and ethanol extraction, are chosen depending on the desired flavour profile. These processes ensure the extracted oils are ready for precise use in brewing.
Incorporating Oils During Brewing
In non-alcoholic brewing, hop oils are added in multiple stages. An initial addition at a controlled temperature creates a strong aroma foundation. Later, a cooler addition helps retain more delicate notes. Strict temperature management throughout the process reduces the loss of volatile compounds.
Since hop oils are less soluble in water, brewers use specialised emulsification techniques to ensure the oils are evenly distributed in the brew. This attention to detail ensures the final product achieves the desired balance of flavour and aroma.
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Testing Aroma in Non-Alcoholic Beer
Aroma testing plays a crucial role in ensuring non-alcoholic beers deliver the sensory experience of their alcoholic counterparts. Breweries today use advanced methods to keep hop oil aromas consistent and maintain high-quality standards.
Common Aroma Types
Non-alcoholic beers often showcase a variety of aroma profiles that brewers carefully balance. These typically include floral, citrus, herbal, fruity, and earthy notes. Maintaining these aromas is critical during both brewing and storage.
To evaluate these profiles, brewers often rely on a standardised aroma wheel. This tool helps categorise and assess different scent characteristics. Here's a breakdown of key aroma categories, their common notes, and the typical compounds responsible:
| Aroma Category | Common Notes | Typical Source Compounds |
|---|---|---|
| Floral | Rose, Geranium, Lavender | Geraniol, Linalool |
| Citrus | Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon | Limonene, Citral |
| Herbal | Sage, Thyme, Mint | Myrcene, Humulene |
| Fruity | Tropical, Stone Fruit, Berry | Esters, Terpenes |
| Earthy | Pine, Wood, Grass | Alpha-pinene, Beta-pinene |
These categories help brewers measure volatile compounds accurately and ensure the beer's aroma remains stable.
Aroma Testing Equipment
To analyse hop oil aromas, breweries use a mix of high-tech tools and sensory evaluations. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is commonly used to identify volatile compounds, while trained panels perform sensory tests to complement the data.
Some breweries, such as IMPOSSIBREW®, combine cryogenic fermentation with their proprietary Social Blend™ to preserve and enhance aroma [1].
Common tools for aroma testing include:
- Electronic noses: Devices equipped with sensors to detect and measure specific aroma compounds.
- Spectrophotometers: Instruments that assess light absorption to determine oil concentrations.
- Climate-controlled tasting rooms: Spaces designed to provide consistent environments for sensory evaluations.
Hop Oil Problems and Solutions
Maintaining the quality of hop oils is key to replicating classic beer aromas in non-alcoholic brews, especially after aroma testing.
Preserving Hop Oils
To avoid oxidation and off-flavours, hop oils need careful storage. Brewers manage factors like temperature, light, oxygen, and humidity using advanced climate systems. One method, cryogenic fermentation, helps safeguard the integrity of hop oils without relying on alcohol. After preservation, these oils must integrate smoothly with other flavours.
Combining Hop Oils with Other Ingredients
Achieving a balanced flavour profile requires blending hop oils with the right ingredients. Adding hop oils at specific stages while keeping temperatures and ingredient ratios in check helps bring out the desired notes. A great example is IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™, which marries traditional brewing techniques with botanical extracts to create a well-rounded flavour [1].
Conclusion: Next Steps for Hop Oils
Current Market Leaders
The non-alcoholic beer industry is making strides in using hop oils to improve flavour and aroma. IMPOSSIBREW® stands out with its unique cryogenic fermentation method and its proprietary Social Blend™, designed to mimic the sensory qualities of traditional beer while preserving hop oils effectively. Their Enhanced Lager and Enhanced Pale Ale were recognised as the UK's Best Non-Alcoholic Beer at the 2023 World Beer Awards [1]. These developments are setting the stage for further advancements in the sector.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Market Growth
The popularity of non-alcoholic options continues to rise. According to market data, 88% of IMPOSSIBREW® customers reported cutting back on alcohol, and 95% would recommend the brand to others [1]. With options as low as 6 calories per 100ml, brewers are exploring new ways to use hop oils to boost flavour and aroma. These ongoing improvements are shaping the future of non-alcoholic beer production.
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What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.
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Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 9am - 5:30pm.
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