CentennialvsHersbrucker

Centennial (dual purpose) and Hersbrucker (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Centennial

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–12%

Beta acid

3.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–3 mL

United States

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Centennial

  • 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

When to pick Hersbrucker

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Centennial

PineCitrusFloralGrapefruitTangerine

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Property

PropertyCentennialHersbrucker
Alpha acid7–12%1.5–5%
Beta acid3.5–5.5%2.5–6%
Co-humulone23–30%17–25%
Total oil1–3 mL0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene55–65%15–30%
Humulene10–20%20–30%
Caryophyllene5–7%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeAroma

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