Columbus
Alpha acid
14–18%
Beta acid
4.5–6%
Total oil
2.5–4.5 mL
United States
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Columbus
- 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
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Herkules
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Columbus
EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis
Only in Herkules
Melon
Property
| Property | Columbus | Herkules |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 14–18% | 12–17% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–6% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 28–35% | 32–38% |
| Total oil | 2.5–4.5 mL | 1.4–2.4 mL |
| Myrcene | 45–55% | 30–50% |
| Humulene | 9–14% | 30–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–10% | 7–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |