EroicavsMerkur

Eroica (bittering) and Merkur (dual purpose) 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

Merkur

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–16.2%

Beta acid

4.5–7.3%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Eroica

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Merkur

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.

Only in Eroica

-

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintCitrusEarthy

Property

PropertyEroicaMerkur
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%12–16.2%
Beta acid3–5.3%4.5–7.3%
Co-humulone40%17–20%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL2–3 mL
Myrcene55–65%45–50%
Humulene0–1%28–32%
Caryophyllene7–13%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesGermany
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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