El Dorado
Alpha acid
13–17%
Beta acid
6.4–8%
Total oil
2.5–3.3 mL
United States
Merkur
Alpha acid
12–16.2%
Beta acid
4.5–7.3%
Total oil
2–3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick El Dorado
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
When to pick Merkur
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in El Dorado
FruityTropicalPearWatermelonCandyStone fruit
Only in Merkur
SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy
Property
| Property | El Dorado | Merkur |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13–17% | 12–16.2% |
| Beta acid | 6.4–8% | 4.5–7.3% |
| Co-humulone | 28–33% | 17–20% |
| Total oil | 2.5–3.3 mL | 2–3 mL |
| Myrcene | 55–60% | 45–50% |
| Humulene | 10–15% | 28–32% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–8% | 8–10% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |
Hallertau Taurus
Nelson Sauvin