Hildegard of Bingen
Term from the Brauwerkstatt brewing glossary, category “History and beer culture”.
Explanation
Abbess and scholar in the 12th century. In her work “Physica” she wrote about hops, saying their bitterness made drinks keep longer. It is one of the earliest mentions of the preserving effect of hops in beer.
Test your knowledge
What did Abbess Hildegard of Bingen write about hops in the 12th century?
- They are poisonous
- They make beer sweet
- They make drinks keep longer
Show answer
Correct: They make drinks keep longer. Gradually hops replaced gruit, a herb mixture used for flavouring.