DeltavsSimcoe

Delta (aroma) and Simcoe (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

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Delta

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

When to pick Simcoe

  • 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
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Delta

MelonSpicy

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegum

Property

PropertyDeltaSimcoe
Alpha acid5.5–7%11–15%
Beta acid5.5–7%3–5%
Co-humulone22–24%15–21%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene25–40%40–50%
Humulene25–35%15–20%
Caryophyllene9–15%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaDual purpose

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