ArchervsMedusa

Archer and Medusa are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Archer

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

Medusa

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Archer

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering

When to pick Medusa

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

ApricotLimeCitrusPeach

Only in Archer

Floral

Only in Medusa

GuavaMelonLemonAlfalfa

Property

PropertyArcherMedusa
Alpha acid4–6%3–5%
Beta acid2–3%5–6.5%
Co-humulone32–38%35–49%
Total oil0.6–0.8 mL0.4–0.7 mL
Myrcene20–25%54–55%
Humulene26–30%9–10%
Caryophyllene-13–14%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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