BobekvsPolaris

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

Bobek

Bittering

Alpha acid

3.5–9.3%

Beta acid

4–6.6%

Total oil

0.7–4 mL

Slovenia

Polaris

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–23%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

4–5 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Bobek

  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Polaris

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Bobek

PineFloral

Only in Polaris

MintMentholPineapple

Property

PropertyBobekPolaris
Alpha acid3.5–9.3%18–23%
Beta acid4–6.6%4.5–6.5%
Co-humulone26–31%22–29%
Total oil0.7–4 mL4–5 mL
Myrcene30–45%49–51%
Humulene13–19%20–35%
Caryophyllene4–6%8–13%
Farnesene4–7%0–1%
OriginSloveniaGermany
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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