GaiavsAurora

Gaia (bittering) and Aurora (dual purpose) serve different purposes. Comparing acids, aromas and character helps pick the right hop.

Gaia

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–15%

Beta acid

5–10%

Total oil

1.5–2.5 mL

Czech Republic

Aurora

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

6.5–13%

Beta acid

2.7–5.5%

Total oil

0.9–1.8 mL

Slovenia

Key differences

When to pick Gaia

  • 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

When to pick Aurora

  • Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Spicy

Only in Gaia

Hoppy

Only in Aurora

FloralLemongrassNoble

Property

PropertyGaiaAurora
Alpha acid12–15%6.5–13%
Beta acid5–10%2.7–5.5%
Co-humulone20–29%20–26%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.9–1.8 mL
Myrcene23–37%20–25%
Humulene2–4%20–25%
Caryophyllene9–12%6–9%
Farnesene5–7%5–10%
OriginCzech RepublicSlovenia
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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