HerkulesvsChinook

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

Herkules

Bittering

Alpha acid

12–17%

Beta acid

4–5.5%

Total oil

1.4–2.4 mL

Germany

Chinook

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

11.5–15%

Beta acid

3–4%

Total oil

1–2.7 mL

United States

Key differences

When to pick Herkules

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
  • More myrcene - pronounced citrus and resinous notes
  • Bittering workhorse - efficient in the mash

When to pick Chinook

  • 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 Herkules

CitrusMelon

Only in Chinook

PineResinGrapefruitSpicyDankCannabis

Property

PropertyHerkulesChinook
Alpha acid12–17%11.5–15%
Beta acid4–5.5%3–4%
Co-humulone32–38%27–35%
Total oil1.4–2.4 mL1–2.7 mL
Myrcene30–50%20–30%
Humulene30–45%18–24%
Caryophyllene7–12%9–11%
Farnesene0–1%0–1%
OriginGermanyUnited States
PurposeBitteringDual purpose

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