Fuggle
Alpha acid
2.4–6.1%
Beta acid
2.1–3.5%
Total oil
0.44–1 mL
United Kingdom
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Fuggle
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
When to pick Herkules
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Fuggle
WoodyGrassyMintMild
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Property
| Property | Fuggle | Herkules |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 2.4–6.1% | 12–17% |
| Beta acid | 2.1–3.5% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 25–32% | 32–38% |
| Total oil | 0.44–1 mL | 1.4–2.4 mL |
| Myrcene | 15–25% | 30–50% |
| Humulene | 30–40% | 30–45% |
| Caryophyllene | 11–15% | 7–12% |
| Farnesene | 5–8% | 0–1% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Germany |
| Purpose | Aroma | Bittering |