ElixirvsHersbrucker

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

Elixir

Aroma

Alpha acid

4.6–7%

Beta acid

4.5–6.6%

Total oil

1.8–2.2 mL

France

Hersbrucker

Aroma

Alpha acid

1.5–5%

Beta acid

2.5–6%

Total oil

0.5–1.3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Elixir

  • 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

When to pick Hersbrucker

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

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

TobaccoOrange

Only in Elixir

RoseCognacLeatherCitrusTropicalTangerineFloralSandalwoodSpicy

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHay

Property

PropertyElixirHersbrucker
Alpha acid4.6–7%1.5–5%
Beta acid4.5–6.6%2.5–6%
Co-humulone25–30%17–25%
Total oil1.8–2.2 mL0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene65–75%15–30%
Humulene1–2%20–30%
Caryophyllene26–27%8–13%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginFranceGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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