DeltavsHerald

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

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Herald

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

9–13%

Beta acid

4.5–5.5%

Total oil

1–1.9 mL

United Kingdom

Key differences

When to pick Delta

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Herald

  • 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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Delta

MelonSpicy

Only in Herald

OrangeGrapefruitClean

Property

PropertyDeltaHerald
Alpha acid5.5–7%9–13%
Beta acid5.5–7%4.5–5.5%
Co-humulone22–24%35–37%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL1–1.9 mL
Myrcene25–40%39–41%
Humulene25–35%14–16%
Caryophyllene9–15%6–8%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited Kingdom
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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