ApollovsStyrian Cardinal
Apollo (bittering) and Styrian Cardinal (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Apollo
Alpha acid
15–20.5%
Beta acid
5.5–8%
Total oil
0.8–2.5 mL
United States
Styrian Cardinal
Alpha acid
8–15%
Beta acid
3.2–4.6%
Total oil
3–4 mL
Slovenia
Key differences
When to pick Apollo
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Styrian Cardinal
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
CitrusOrangeLime
Only in Apollo
GrapefruitPineResinCannabisLemonDank
Only in Styrian Cardinal
GooseberryPineappleJasmineGuava
Property
| Property | Apollo | Styrian Cardinal |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 15–20.5% | 8–15% |
| Beta acid | 5.5–8% | 3.2–4.6% |
| Co-humulone | 23–28% | 31–37% |
| Total oil | 0.8–2.5 mL | 3–4 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 20–35% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 14–20% | 8–11% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–7% |
| Origin | United States | Slovenia |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |