AuroravsSmaragd

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

Aurora

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–13%

Beta acid

2.7–5.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.8 mL

Slovenia

Smaragd

Bittering

Alpha acid

4–6%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.8 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Aurora

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

When to pick Smaragd

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

FloralSpicyNoble

Only in Aurora

Lemongrass

Only in Smaragd

FruityTobaccoAniseClove

Property

PropertyAuroraSmaragd
Alpha acid6.5–13%4–6%
Beta acid2.7–5.5%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone20–26%13–18%
Total oil0.9–1.8 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene20–25%20–40%
Humulene20–25%30–50%
Caryophyllene6–9%9–14%
Farnesene5–10%0–1%
OriginSloveniaGermany
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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