NEW ZEALAND

We are currently organising the shipment of our 2006 crop New Zealand Hops (harvest will be in March). We have a good supply of Organic NZ Hallertauer Aroma coming across the seas but have also been offered Organic Cascade. We currently have a small stock of Organic NZ Cascade whole hop from the 2005 crop but would very much appreciate an indication of quantity if you would like to try/ continue to use the 2006 crop. Please let me know as soon as possible.

UK

Also an update on John Walker’s Organic First Gold production in Tedney, Worcestershire: -

The yields have varied dramatically,

• 2001 2ztr (First planting produced in conversion)
• 2002 38ztr
• 2003 83ztr
• 2004 7ztr
• 2005 60ztr
• 2006 ?

The 2004 crop was decimated by aphid but there was sufficient build up of predators during that year to remove any problems last year. We do not anticipate any problems for 2006 but will keep you posted. We have small stocks of 2005 crop hops available if required. 2006 crop please let us know of your requirements as soon as possible.

John is planting another 2 acres of First Gold which is in response to demand from the USA; Organic is taking off out there according to our sources. He is also planting 2 acres of the as yet un-named variety TA200. We see this as a very important addition to both the Organic and Non-organic portfolio. It has a light floral aroma and is being heralded as the dwarf Fuggle by growers. Alpha in the range 4.0 – 5.5%. Small quantities of normally produced (non organic) TA200 are available (currently only as whole hops) with the Organic production on line for the 2007 crop, with perhaps a small amount available from the 2006 harvest depending on how the plants establish in their first year.

GERMANY

We have good stocks of 2005 crop Organic Spalt Select 5.3% and Hallertau Tradition 5.7% in whole hops. Please let us know if you require any 2006 crop so that we can make all the necessary arrangements (particularly for pellets).