[brushvalleybrewer]

I’m going to do my first harvest ale with my own hops over Labor Day. Should I rinse them off before throwing them in the boil?

I’m thinking if there are any bugs on them, that may give them an opportunity to leave.

[hopfenundmalz]

Just throw them in.

[brushvalleybrewer]

Okay then!

As a follow up…

Does the protein in the bugs aid in head retention? 

[stlaleman]

Doesn't hurt!   

[dmtaylor]

I find that bugs add a pleasant yet subtle earthiness that you just can't get from rinsed hops.

And I'm pulling your leg.   

But you can and should indeed just throw 'em in.  Don't forget that if you're using fresh undried hops, you need to use 5 times as much by weight as you would use for dry because 80% of them is flavorless water weight.

[pinnah]

I find that bugs add a pleasant yet subtle earthiness that you just can't get from rinsed hops.

 

I found that if I let them sit overnight outside,
most critters voluntarily vacate the premises!

Have fun.