ApollovsSimcoe

Apollo (bittering) and Simcoe (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Apollo

Bittering

Alpha acid

15–20.5%

Beta acid

5.5–8%

Total oil

0.8–2.5 mL

United States

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Apollo

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Simcoe

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusGrapefruitPine

Only in Apollo

OrangeResinCannabisLimeLemonDank

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyPassion fruitBerryApricotBubblegum

Property

PropertyApolloSimcoe
Alpha acid15–20.5%11–15%
Beta acid5.5–8%3–5%
Co-humulone23–28%15–21%
Total oil0.8–2.5 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene30–50%40–50%
Humulene20–35%15–20%
Caryophyllene14–20%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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