CTZvsMerkur

CTZ and Merkur are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

CTZ

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14.5–17%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Merkur

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–16.2%

Beta acid

4.5–7.3%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick CTZ

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma

When to pick Merkur

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in CTZ

Black currantLicoriceCurryCannabisDank

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintEarthy

Property

PropertyCTZMerkur
Alpha acid14.5–17%12–16.2%
Beta acid4.5–5.5%4.5–7.3%
Co-humulone28–35%17–20%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL2–3 mL
Myrcene45–55%45–50%
Humulene9–14%28–32%
Caryophyllene6–10%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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