Will New Hampshire Be “Hopping” On The Next Cash Crop ?

Now you say what is the significance of hops, well it is a must have in the brewing of beer and now a cash crop in the production of craft beers in many states in the U.S.  While the rest of the United States tries to legalize pot to grow for cash some farmers are turning to a necessary ingredient in the making of one of the most popular beverages in the world. The hop flower oil is what gives beer its taste and aroma and grows on tall bines.

For years New York state was the number one producer of hops in America and number two in the world. The majority of the hops now come from the Pacific Northwest but other states are trying get into the production end.  Vermont and Maine agriculturists are taking the cue but so far New Hampshire is not jumping on the bandwagon. Some of the new states are requiring craft brewers to purchase hops from local farmers to encourage growth in the marketplace.