Hallertau TaurusvsMerkur

Hallertau Taurus and Merkur are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Hallertau Taurus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–17.9%

Beta acid

4–6%

Total oil

0.9–1.5 mL

United Kingdom

Merkur

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

12–16.2%

Beta acid

4.5–7.3%

Total oil

2–3 mL

Germany

Key differences

When to pick Hallertau Taurus

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

When to pick Merkur

  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Earthy

Only in Hallertau Taurus

ChocolateBananaSpicyPepperCurry

Only in Merkur

SugarPineappleMintCitrus

Property

PropertyHallertau TaurusMerkur
Alpha acid12–17.9%12–16.2%
Beta acid4–6%4.5–7.3%
Co-humulone20–25%17–20%
Total oil0.9–1.5 mL2–3 mL
Myrcene29–31%45–50%
Humulene30–31%28–32%
Caryophyllene7–9%8–10%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginUnited KingdomGermany
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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