EroicavsMeridian

Eroica (bittering) and Meridian (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

Meridian

Aroma

Alpha acid

5–7%

Beta acid

6–9%

Total oil

1–1.6 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

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

When to pick Meridian

  • 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 Meridian

CitrusLemonBerryTropicalMintSpearmint

Property

PropertyEroicaMeridian
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%5–7%
Beta acid3–5.3%6–9%
Co-humulone40%45–50%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL1–1.6 mL
Myrcene55–65%29–31%
Humulene0–1%7–9%
Caryophyllene7–13%3–4%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringAroma

Related comparisons