BullionvsEroica

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

Bullion

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

5.3–12.5%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

1–2 mL

United States

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Bullion

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

When to pick Eroica

  • 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 Bullion

Black currantSpicy

Only in Eroica

-

Property

PropertyBullionEroica
Alpha acid5.3–12.5%7.3–14.9%
Beta acid4.5–6.5%3–5.3%
Co-humulone47–50%40%
Total oil1–2 mL0.8–1.3 mL
Myrcene40–55%55–65%
Humulene15–25%0–1%
Caryophyllene9–14%7–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeBittering

Related comparisons