Enigma
Alpha acid
13.5–19.4%
Beta acid
4.5–7.1%
Total oil
1.8–3 mL
Australia
Simcoe
Alpha acid
11–15%
Beta acid
3–5%
Total oil
0.8–3.2 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Enigma
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
When to pick Simcoe
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Berry
Only in Enigma
TropicalStone fruitRaspberryRedcurrantWhite
Only in Simcoe
FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineApricotBubblegumCitrus
Property
| Property | Enigma | Simcoe |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 13.5–19.4% | 11–15% |
| Beta acid | 4.5–7.1% | 3–5% |
| Co-humulone | 37–43% | 15–21% |
| Total oil | 1.8–3 mL | 0.8–3.2 mL |
| Myrcene | 23–30% | 40–50% |
| Humulene | 12–19% | 15–20% |
| Caryophyllene | 6–8% | 8–14% |
| Farnesene | 9–12% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Australia | United States |
| Purpose | Aroma | Dual purpose |