What flavor characteristics do hops typically impart to beer?

The correct choice reflects the well-known flavor characteristics that certain hop varieties bring to beer. Hops contribute a range of flavors and aromas, including floral, herbal, citrus, and pine notes, which enhance the overall complexity of the beer. When specifically considering certain hop varieties, the piney and cedar-like flavors are particularly prominent in hops such as Cascade and Chinook, which are commonly used in many beer styles, especially IPAs.

While other flavor profiles are indeed found in various ingredients used in brewing, they do not accurately describe the distinctive qualities imparted by hops. For example, sweet and nutty flavors are more commonly associated with malts rather than hops, while dark and roasted flavors are characteristic of darker malts, not hops. Floral and herbal notes are present in some hops, but the dominance of pine and cedar aromas is particularly pronounced in the context of the question. This makes the selected answer the most aligned with the classic understanding of hop contributions to beer flavor.