BergamotvsZeus

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

Bergamot

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–10.7%

Beta acid

6–8.9%

Total oil

-

United States

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 Bergamot

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zeus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • 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 Bergamot

OrangeMangoDankCherryZestLemongrassLimeJuniperTropicalPepperFloral

Only in Zeus

Black currantLicoriceCurryPungent

Property

PropertyBergamotZeus
Alpha acid8–10.7%13–17.5%
Beta acid6–8.9%4–6.5%
Co-humulone39–40%28–40%
Total oil-2.4–4.5 mL
Myrcene44–45%45–60%
Humulene14–15%9–18%
Caryophyllene9–10%6–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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