EroicavsNorthdown

Eroica (bittering) and Northdown (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

Northdown

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

7–10%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.2–2.5 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 Northdown

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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 Northdown

FloralPineCedarBerrySpicy

Property

PropertyEroicaNorthdown
Alpha acid7.3–14.9%7–10%
Beta acid3–5.3%4–5.5%
Co-humulone40%24–32%
Total oil0.8–1.3 mL1.2–2.5 mL
Myrcene55–65%23–29%
Humulene0–1%40–45%
Caryophyllene7–13%13–17%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited StatesUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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