Alpha acids

Alpha acids are natural compounds found in hop cones used in brewing beer. They are responsible for the bitterness in beer, balancing the sweetness of malt. During boiling, alpha acids convert into iso-alpha acids, which impart the characteristic bitter flavor. The amount of alpha acids in hops influences the beer's bitterness level—more alpha acids mean a more bitter taste. Brewers select different hop varieties based on their alpha acid content to achieve desired flavor profiles and balance in the final beer.