When should hops be added to enhance the aroma of a beer?

Adding hops primarily at the end of the brewing process is the best method for enhancing the aroma of a beer. When hops are added during the last stages of boiling or in the whirlpool phase, their essential oils are preserved instead of evaporating, which naturally occurs when hops are boiled for a long time. These essential oils contribute to the aroma and overall flavor of the beer, providing the desired hoppy characteristics without being overpowered by bitterness. This technique is commonly utilized in brewing styles where hop aroma is paramount, such as IPAs.

Adding hops at other stages, such as at the beginning of the boil, typically adds more bitterness rather than aroma since the longer the hops are boiled, the more their aromatic compounds evaporate. Therefore, for maximizing hop aroma, focusing on late additions is the most effective strategy.