Emerald SpirevsHersbrucker
Emerald Spire (dual purpose) and Hersbrucker (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Emerald Spire
Alpha acid
8.6–13%
Beta acid
3.5–4.5%
Total oil
-
United States
Hersbrucker
Alpha acid
1.5–5%
Beta acid
2.5–6%
Total oil
0.5–1.3 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Emerald Spire
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Hersbrucker
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Emerald Spire
PeachFruityWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew
Only in Hersbrucker
NobleHayOrangeTobacco
Property
| Property | Emerald Spire | Hersbrucker |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 8.6–13% | 1.5–5% |
| Beta acid | 3.5–4.5% | 2.5–6% |
| Co-humulone | 38–39% | 17–25% |
| Total oil | - | 0.5–1.3 mL |
| Myrcene | 36–37% | 15–30% |
| Humulene | 10–11% | 20–30% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–8% | 8–13% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United States | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Aroma |