AurumvsSmaragd

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

Aurum

Aroma

Alpha acid

3.5–5.7%

Beta acid

3.1%

Total oil

0.5–1.7 mL

Germany

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 Aurum

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Smaragd

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

SpicyFruityFloralNoble

Only in Aurum

MildHerbalEarthyCitrus

Only in Smaragd

TobaccoAniseClove

Property

PropertyAurumSmaragd
Alpha acid3.5–5.7%4–6%
Beta acid3.1%3.5–5.5%
Co-humulone20–23%13–18%
Total oil0.5–1.7 mL0.4–0.8 mL
Myrcene-20–40%
Humulene-30–50%
Caryophyllene-9–14%
Farnesene-0–1%
OriginGermanyGermany
PurposeAromaBittering

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