EnigmavsHersbrucker

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

Enigma

Aroma

Alpha acid

13.5–19.4%

Beta acid

4.5–7.1%

Total oil

1.8–3 mL

Australia

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 Enigma

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • 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

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Enigma

TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite

Only in Hersbrucker

NobleHayOrangeTobacco

Property

PropertyEnigmaHersbrucker
Alpha acid13.5–19.4%1.5–5%
Beta acid4.5–7.1%2.5–6%
Co-humulone37–43%17–25%
Total oil1.8–3 mL0.5–1.3 mL
Myrcene23–30%15–30%
Humulene12–19%20–30%
Caryophyllene6–8%8–13%
Farnesene9–12%0–1%
OriginAustraliaGermany
PurposeAromaAroma

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