DeltavsHerkules

Delta (aroma) and Herkules (bittering) 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

Herkules

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–2.4 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Delta

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

When to pick Herkules

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusMelon

Only in Delta

Spicy

Only in Herkules

-

Property

PropertyDeltaHerkules
Alpha acid5.5–7%12–17%
Beta acid5.5–7%4–5.5%
Co-humulone22–24%32–38%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL1.4–2.4 mL
Myrcene25–40%30–50%
Humulene25–35%30–45%
Caryophyllene9–15%7–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaBittering

Related comparisons