DeltavsPolaris

Delta (aroma) and Polaris (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

Polaris

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

18–23%

Beta acid

4.5–6.5%

Total oil

4–5 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Delta

  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping

When to pick Polaris

  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Delta

CitrusMelonSpicy

Only in Polaris

MintMentholPineapple

Property

PropertyDeltaPolaris
Alpha acid5.5–7%18–23%
Beta acid5.5–7%4.5–6.5%
Co-humulone22–24%22–29%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL4–5 mL
Myrcene25–40%49–51%
Humulene25–35%20–35%
Caryophyllene9–15%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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