ArchervsZeus

Archer (aroma) and Zeus (bittering) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Archer

Aroma

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

2–3%

Total oil

0.6–0.8 mL

United Kingdom

Zeus

Bittering

Alpha acid

13–17.5%

Beta acid

4–6.5%

Total oil

2.4–4.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Archer

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Zeus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Archer

ApricotLimeFloralCitrusPeach

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyArcherZeus
Alpha acid4–6%13–17.5%
Beta acid2–3%4–6.5%
Co-humulone32–38%28–40%
Total oil0.6–0.8 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene20–25%45–60%
Humulene26–30%9–18%
Caryophyllene-6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomUnited States
PurposeAromaBittering

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