Hallertau TaurusvsHerkules

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

Hallertau Taurus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–17.9%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Herkules

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–2.4 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Hallertau Taurus

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

When to pick Herkules

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • 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 Hallertau Taurus

ChocolateBananaSpicyPepperCurryEarthy

Only in Herkules

CitrusMelon

Property

PropertyHallertau TaurusHerkules
Alpha acid12–17.9%12–17%
Beta acid4–6%4–5.5%
Co-humulone20–25%32–38%
Total oil0.9–1.5 mL1.4–2.4 mL
Myrcene29–31%30–50%
Humulene30–31%30–45%
Caryophyllene7–9%7–12%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeDual purposeBittering

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