Abstract: An improved hop picking finger for use in automated hop harvesting equipment, formed from a single length of wire and having a first leg and a second leg, each leg comprising an upper segment, a middle segment, a lower segment and a helical spring between the middle and lower segments. The ratio of the lengths of the middle segment and lower segment to the helical spring diameter increases wear resistance and decreases stress breaks. An array of non-interlocking, non-overlapping hop picking fingers removably secured to a hop harvester finger bar.

Abstract: An improved hop picking finger for use in automated hop harvesting equipment.

Abstract: A filter assembly for infusing an additive in a liquid. The filter assembly comprises an elongated filter bag that is rigidly reinforced along its vertical length and removably securable to the side of the vessel containing the liquid, to prevent flotation of the filter assembly and its contents. In an embodiment, the lower portion of the elongated filter bag is pre-filled with an additive and closed off to retain the additive in the lower portion. The filter assembly may be disposable. The invention further includes a method of dry-hopping beer using the disclosed filter assembly.