BobekvsStyrian Cardinal

Bobek (bittering) and Styrian Cardinal (aroma) 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

Styrian Cardinal

Aroma

Alpha acid

8–15%

Beta acid

3.2–4.6%

Total oil

3–4 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Bobek

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

When to pick Styrian Cardinal

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Bobek

PineFloral

Only in Styrian Cardinal

CitrusGooseberryPineappleOrangeLimeJasmineGuava

Property

PropertyBobekStyrian Cardinal
Alpha acid3.5–9.3%8–15%
Beta acid4–6.6%3.2–4.6%
Co-humulone26–31%31–37%
Total oil0.7–4 mL3–4 mL
Myrcene30–45%40–50%
Humulene13–19%15–22%
Caryophyllene4–6%8–11%
Farnesene4–7%5–7%
OriginSloveniaSlovenia
PurposeBitteringAroma

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