EnigmavsMarco Polo
Enigma (aroma) and Marco Polo (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.
Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Marco Polo
Alpha acid
12–13%
Beta acid
4.5–5.5%
Total oil
-
China
Key differences
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Marco Polo
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Enigma
TropicalBerryStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Only in Marco Polo
GooseberryOreganoElderflower
Property
| Property | Enigma | Marco Polo |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13.5–19.4% | 12–13% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.1% | 4.5–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 37–43% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 1.8–3 mL | - |
| Myrcene | 23–30% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 12–19% | 15–25% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–8% | 8–12% |
| Farnesene | 9–12% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | China |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |
CTZ
Hallertau Blanc
Nelson Sauvin