BobekvsVital

Bobek (bittering) and Vital (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

Vital

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–16%

Beta acid

6–11%

Total oil

1.1–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Key differences

When to pick Bobek

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Vital

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Bobek

PineFloral

Only in Vital

PlumLavenderSpicyLicorice

Property

PropertyBobekVital
Alpha acid3.5–9.3%9–16%
Beta acid4–6.6%6–11%
Co-humulone26–31%21–26%
Total oil0.7–4 mL1.1–2.5 mL
Myrcene30–45%40–60%
Humulene13–19%2–5%
Caryophyllene4–6%5–8%
Farnesene4–7%1–3%
OriginSloveniaCzech Republic
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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