DeltavsZappa

Delta and Zappa 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

Zappa

Aroma

Alpha acid

6–9%

Beta acid

8–9%

Total oil

1.8–2.5 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Delta

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Zappa

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

CitrusSpicy

Only in Delta

Melon

Only in Zappa

MintSavoryFruityMangoPassion fruitTropicalPineFresh

Property

PropertyDeltaZappa
Alpha acid5.5–7%6–9%
Beta acid5.5–7%8–9%
Co-humulone22–24%40–45%
Total oil0.5–1.1 mL1.8–2.5 mL
Myrcene25–40%64–65%
Humulene25–35%4–5%
Caryophyllene9–15%8–9%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeAromaAroma

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