Harlequin
Alpha acid
9–12%
Beta acid
7–9%
Total oil
1–1.6 mL
UK
Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Key differences
When to pick Harlequin
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Versatile - works for both bittering and aroma
When to pick Herkules
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
Aroma profile and use
No shared aromas - the varieties have divergent profiles.
Only in Harlequin
Passion fruitPeachPineapple
Only in Herkules
CitrusMelon
Property
| Property | Harlequin | Herkules |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–12% | 12–17% |
| Beta acid | 7–9% | 4–5.5% |
| Co-humulone | 27–31% | 32–38% |
| Total oil | 1–1.6 mL | 1.4–2.4 mL |
| Myrcene | 59–61% | 30–50% |
| Humulene | 4–6% | 30–45% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 7–12% |
| Farnesene | 9–11% | 0–1% |
| Origin | UK | Germany |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Bittering |
Mosaic