Abstract: Compositions and methods are disclosed for stabilizing the flavor of a fermented beverage, most particularly beer, by the addition of a composition comprising a tannin and a solid carrier prior to, or during early stages of, fermentation of the beverage. The invention is also directed to the fermented beverage prepared by such a method. The composition may include at least one polyphenol therein and may be in the form of a pellet.

Abstract: A specialized process for producing purified iso-alpha-acids from hop extract. Hop extract is first combined with a metal salt isomerizing agent. The mixture is preferably boiled to ensure complete isomerization. First organic and aqueous phases are produced, followed by washing of the first organic phase with a primary acid. These materials are preferably boiled during washing. A second organic and aqueous phase are produced, with the second organic phase being washed with a primary alkaline washing agent. Optimum results are achieved if boiling temperatures are maintained during washing. Third organic and aqueous phases are then produced, with the third aqueous phase being washed using a secondary acid to generate fourth organic and aqueous phases. The fourth organic phase (containing purified iso-alpha-acids) may then be stored and subsequently treated with a secondary alkaline washing agent to produce an aqueous concentrate used in brewed beverage production.