Herkules
Alpha acid
12–17%
Beta acid
4–5.5%
Total oil
1.4–2.4 mL
Germany
Ahtanum
Alpha acid
3.5–6.5%
Beta acid
4–6.5%
Total oil
0.5–1.7 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Herkules
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- More essential oils - more intense aroma
- Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash
When to pick Ahtanum
- More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
- Aroma-focused - ideal for dry hopping
- Richer, more complex aroma profile
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Herkules
Melon
Only in Ahtanum
GrapefruitGeraniumPineEarthyFloralCedarLemon
Property
| Property | Herkules | Ahtanum |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 12–17% | 3.5–6.5% |
| Beta acid | 4–5.5% | 4–6.5% |
| Co-humulone | 32–38% | 30–35% |
| Total oil | 1.4–2.4 mL | 0.5–1.7 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–50% | 45–55% |
| Humulene | 30–45% | 15–22% |
| Caryophyllene | 7–12% | 9–12% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 0–1% |
| Origin | Germany | United States |
| Purpose | Bittering | Aroma |