AuroravsZeus

Aurora (dual purpose) and Zeus (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

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 Aurora

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

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 Aurora

FloralSpicyLemongrassNoble

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyAuroraZeus
Alpha acid6.5–13%13–17.5%
Beta acid2.7–5.5%4–6.5%
Co-humulone20–26%28–40%
Total oil0.9–1.8 mL2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene20–25%45–60%
Humulene20–25%9–18%
Caryophyllene6–9%6–11%
Farnesene5–10%0–1%
OriginSloveniaUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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