African QueenvsMarco Polo
African Queen and Marco Polo are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
African Queen
Alpha acid
10–17%
Beta acid
3.9–6.2%
Total oil
0.7–1.5 mL
South Africa
Marco Polo
Alpha acid
12–13%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
-
China
Key differences
When to pick African Queen
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Marco Polo
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Gooseberry
Only in African Queen
CitrusDankBlueberryStone fruitBlack currantBubblegumCassisLemongrassChiliesGazpacho
Only in Marco Polo
OreganoElderflower
Property
| Property | African Queen | Marco Polo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 10–17% | 12–13% |
| Beta acid | 3.9–6.2% | 4.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 22–30% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 0.7–1.5 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 20–29% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 21–30% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 10–17% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 5–7% | 0–1% |
| Origin | South Africa | China |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Amarillo