EroicavsMedusa

Eroica (bittering) and Medusa (aroma) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Eroica

Bittering

Alpha acid

7.3–14.9%

Beta acid

3–5.3%

Total oil

0.8–1.3 mL

United States

Medusa

Aroma

Alpha acid

3–5%

Beta acid

5–6.5%

Total oil

0.4–0.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Medusa

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in Medusa

GuavaMelonCitrusApricotLemonLimeAlfalfaPeach

Property

PropertyEroicaMedusa
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%3–5%
Beta acid3–5.3%5–6.5%
Co-humulone40%35–49%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL0.4–0.7 mL
Myrcene55–65%54–55%
Humulene0–1%9–10%
Caryophyllene7–13%13–14%
Farnesene0–1%1–2%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

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