The hop (Humuluslupulus L.) is a perennial, dioecious climbing plant of the hemp family and belongs to the order (Urticales) which alsoincludes the nettle family. In the brewery it is the inflorescences of the female plant which are used. These contain bitter resins and etherealoils which supply bittering and aroma components to the beer.  As far as brewing is concerned, hops are thedried hop cones of the female hop plant and products made from them which contain only components from hops.  Hops are grown- in special growing regions where the necessary growth conditions exist. After the harvesting of the hop, they are driedand processed to avoid a reduction in their value.  The structure of the hop cone and its composition provide important information for theevaluation of hops.