Early trials with Nelson Sauvin immediately revealed it to be somewhat different in its brewing character compared to other hop cultivars. This variety imparts certain grape like flavours to the beer; flavours which have yet to be positively identified, and are described as “Sauvignon Blanc, gooseberry, distinct, clean and fresh”. To acknowledge this “Sauvignon Blanc” flavour the variety was named Nelson Sauvin. Nelson Sauvin is a 12 % alpha hop, with aromatic qualities that are certainly different and unique.