AstravsEroica

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

Astra

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

1–3 mL

Australia

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Astra

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Astra

TropicalSweetPeachWhiteMelonGrassyGrapefruitHoney

Only in Eroica

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Property

PropertyAstraEroica
Alpha acid7–10%7.3–14.9%
Beta acid4–6%3–5.3%
Co-humulone26–28%40%
Total oil1–3 mL0.8–1.3 mL
Myrcene-55–65%
Humulene6–8%0–1%
Caryophyllene2–3%7–13%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginAustraliaUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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