DeltavsMelba

Delta and Melba are popular aroma hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Delta

Aroma

Alpha acid

5.5–7%

Beta acid

5.5–7%

Total oil

0.5–1.1 mL

United States

Melba

Aroma

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

2.5–5%

Total oil

2–4 mL

Australia

Key differences

When to pick Delta

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness

When to pick Melba

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Delta

Melon

Only in Melba

Passion fruitGrapefruit

Property

PropertyDeltaMelba
Alpha acid5.5–7%7–10%
Beta acid5.5–7%2.5–5%
Co-humulone22–24%25–35%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL2–4 mL
Myrcene25–40%-
Humulene25–35%-
Caryophyllene9–15%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesAustralia
PurposeAromaAroma

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