Emerald SpirevsSimcoe

Emerald Spire and Simcoe are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Emerald Spire

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8.6–13%

Beta acid

3.5–4.5%

Total oil

-

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 Emerald Spire

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

When to pick Simcoe

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Fruity

Only in Emerald Spire

PeachWhiteGrapesWatermelonBubbleMelonHoneydew

Only in Simcoe

EarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertyEmerald SpireSimcoe
Alpha acid8.6–13%11–15%
Beta acid3.5–4.5%3–5%
Co-humulone38–39%15–21%
Total oil-0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene36–37%40–50%
Humulene10–11%15–20%
Caryophyllene7–8%8–14%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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