GaiavsSimcoe

Gaia (bittering) and Simcoe (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

Simcoe

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11–15%

Beta acid

3–5%

Total oil

0.8–3.2 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Gaia

  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Simcoe

  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • 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 Gaia

HoppySpicy

Only in Simcoe

FruityEarthyGrapefruitPassion fruitPineBerryApricotBubblegumCitrus

Property

PropertyGaiaSimcoe
Alpha acid12–15%11–15%
Beta acid5–10%3–5%
Co-humulone20–29%15–21%
Total oil1.5–2.5 mL0.8–3.2 mL
Myrcene23–37%40–50%
Humulene2–4%15–20%
Caryophyllene9–12%8–14%
Farnesene5–7%0–1%
OriginCzech RepublicUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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