BEER drinkers have a lot to look forward to with the hops harvest up and running for 2022.

Due to recent good weather and rainfall, all signs are pointing towards an optimistic season.

Ellerslie Hop Estate's managing director, Greg Croke believes this harvest at their Myrrhee farm in the King Valley could be one of the best in recent times.

"It's an above average yield and we're very pleased with the crop," he said.

Ellerslie Hop Estate has existed since the 1930s and is a fourth–generation owned grower and importer of hops and hop products.

Hops are a vital ingredient for breweries, with the cone–shaped flower responsible for the aromas, flavours and bitterness found in beers.

Consistent water is crucial for the growth of the hops so the recent rain has been greatly appreciated by those at Ellerslie.

"We've certainly been helped with rain at the right time over spring and January," Mr Croke said.

With improved yields and a significant amount of well–timed rain, Ellerslie's Myrrhee farm continues to be an integral source of hops for breweries of varying sizes.

"We're dealing with craft breweries, major domestic breweries and international companies for export," Mr Croke said.

A notable collaboration for Ellerslie has been their role in producing the hops used in Coopers' Australian Malt range.

Mr Croke said many breweries have shifted away from international products and instead have navigated towards trusted local farmers to ensure that the demands for beer across the country can be met.

"As a result of logistical issues across the world, there has been a big shift to local options," he said.

With successful results as the harvest approaches its mid–way point, those at Ellerslie are now hopeful of a strong finish to the season.

"From now, we just want to have an uninterrupted conclusion to the season," he said.